In Loving Memory of Patricia Anne Richardson

June 5, 1933 – May 23, 2025

Patricia Anne Richardson, known to many simply as Pat, passed away leaving behind a legacy of compassion, commitment, and community service. Born on June 5, 1933, in LaGrande, Oregon, to Clifford Louise Perkins and Lela James Perkins, Pat lived a life rich with purpose and dedication to others.

Pat graduated from LaGrande High School in 1950 and pursued her studies at Eastern Oregon State College. She later earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Oregon Health Science University in 1955. Her career began in 1956 at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Portland, Oregon, where she worked as a Registered Nurse specializing in cardiology. Later, she took on the role of Head Nurse for the hematology and endocrinology floor.

While living in Portland, Pat met Don Richardson, and the two were married in 1964. Together, they had two children, daughter Jeanine and son Robert. In 1972, Pat and Don moved to the Richardson family farm in Pomeroy, Washington, where Pat's sense of service flourished. She worked as an office nurse for Dr. Shirley Richardson (no relation), served as a Registered Nurse, and acted as Interim Administrator for the Garfield County Hospital District. Her work extended to being Trauma Coordinator for the Department of Health and representing Garfield County on the East Region Emergency Medical Systems Council.

Professionally, Pat was deeply committed to rural nursing. She served as Editor of the national newsletter for the Rural Nursing Organization and was honored with the Anna Mae Erickson National Award for her contributions to the field.

Pat made significant contributions to her community in Pomeroy and beyond. She was instrumental in organizing a co-op preschool and served on various boards, including the Walla Walla Community College board of trustees, Garfield County Human Services board, Garfield County Hospital District board, and chaired the Friends of the Library. Her dedication extended to her roles within PEO, Garfield County Republican Committee, and as a deaconess of the Pomeroy Christian Church.

In her later years, Pat embraced new adventures, learning to downhill snow ski after her children had grown. She joined the Mogul Mashing Mamas and enjoyed regular ski trips that brought her joy and camaraderie. Pat participated in many Bloomsday runs and later served as a volunteer. Pat also enjoyed rollerblading and marching in parades with the Pomeroy Pinwheelers.

Pat also loved to travel, visiting every continent except Antarctica. Her spirit of service took her as far as Brazil and Kenya, where she volunteered in the medical field and made lasting contributions to those she served.

In 2019 Pat moved to Monroe Washington to be closer to her children.

Many years ago Pat identified Isaiah 41:10 to be shared to comfort those who grieve her when she passed: So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Patricia Anne Richardson’s legacy is one of kindness, dedication, and unwavering community spirit. Her impact as a nurse, community leader, mother, and friend will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She has left behind a world made better by her care and commitment to others.

Pat is survived by her daughter Jeanine in Monroe Washington, son Robert (Kathy) in University Place Washington, five grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, and countless individuals whose lives she touched through her work and service. Pat was preceded in death by her parents Cliff and Lela Perkins and son-in-law Dan Kern. May her memory be a blessing to us all.

Memorials may be made to:

Garfield County Hospital District Foundation

c/o Blue Mountain Community Foundation

PO Box 603

Walla Walla WA 99362

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Friends of the Denny Ashby Library

PO Box 670

Pomeroy WA 99347

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Missions Fund

Pomeroy Christian Church

PO Box 699

Pomeroy WA 99347

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