Janet "Jan" Richardson, formerly of Livonia, passed away peacefully late Sunday evening, November 10, 2024, at All Seasons Senior Community in West Bloomfield. She was 84 years old. Jan was born on April 13, 1940, in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, to the late Charles and Margaret (Thompson) Newing. She was reunited in spirit with her beloved husband of 59 years, Bill, who preceded her in death on November 11, 2023. Bill and Jan met as students at Albion College, sharing a love that lasted nearly six decades.

A talented musician and devoted educator, Jan spent many years as a music teacher, sharing her love of piano with countless students. Later, she embraced her passion for quilting, becoming a past-president and active member of two quilting guilds. Taking on the role of "Sunshine Lady," Jan had a unique way of bringing warmth and comfort to those around her and enjoyed sending thoughtful cards to mark birthdays, support loved ones in times of loss and celebrate special milestones.

Jan's community-minded spirit shone brightly through her tireless volunteer work. She dedicated many years sewing for Days for Girls, a charity close to her heart, and taught music to children at Schoolcraft College. As a Girl Scout Leader, Den Mother, and substitute teacher, she nurtured young minds with her caring and joyful nature. Her family will remember her famous soups and her creative sewing talents, which she shared generously with those she loved.

Even in the last year of her life, Jan continued to make new friends and spread kindness in her senior community, where she made it a point to learn everyone's name.  She would often seek out those dining alone to ensure they felt seen and included.  She eagerly learned how to play Euchre and joined Euchre tournaments at All Seasons, embracing the game and the camaraderie it brought. Her love for travel, especially summers spent with family on Torch Lake or relaxing by her beautiful backyard pool, brought her joy and cherished memories. Known for her sharp wit and playful spirit, Jan's sense of humor brightened the lives of everyone around her.

Jan's legacy of warmth, humor, and compassion will be dearly missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a lasting impact on the communities she touched, and her memory will live on in the countless lives she uplifted.

Jan is survived by her dear children, Andrea Hume and Douglas (Susan) Richardson; kind and beautiful granddaughters, Lauren, Gabriella, Ava, and Angelina; brother-in-law, John (Claire) Richardson; nieces, Jane (Jeffery) Erhardt, and Laura (Paul) Rathkamp; and caring son-in-law, Richard Hume.  She was also proceeded in death by brother, Charles Newing II, and her nephew, Charles Newing III.

Family and friends may gather for a memorial ceremony celebrating the lives of both Jan and Bill on Friday, November 29, at 11:00 am (visiting from 10 - 11 a.m.) at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home, downtown Farmington.  If you plan to attend the luncheon following the memorial service, kindly RSVP to the family using the following email address:  wprich2@mac.com.

Private interment will take place at Pine Lake Cemetery in West Bloomfield.

Memorial tributes are kindly suggested to Days for Girls or the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center .