Is is with heavy hearts that we announce Beverly “Jo” J. Richardson, a loving mother and grandmother, passed away at her home on May 4, 2025, at the age of 62. She was surrounded by so many loved ones.
Jo was born on December 12, 1962, in L.A. California, to Gerald “Jerry” Smalley and Florine “Flo” (Knaup) Smalley. She was the youngest of five kids. They moved to Pittsburg, KS, in 1969. She attended school in Pittsburg, KS, and later obtained her G.E.D. She then enrolled in the Pittsburg State University nursing program.
Jo had two children, Steven “Jr” Tilley and Rachel Martin. She married the love of her life, John “Chris” Christopher Richardson, on July 31, 1993. Soon after, they moved to Longmont, Colorado, to start their life together. They quickly made friends and joined a church where Jo and her kids were baptized. They also became members of the Christian Motorcycle Association. Jo love being outdoors-hiking, going on bike runs, and getting her hands dirty planting. She had a special bond with her dog, Snoop, and thoroughly enjoyed just curling up on the couch to watch TV and take a nap. Jo was a deeply giving person, always ready to help anyone in need – whether it was food, a place to stay, or just someone to talk to. She had a motherly spirit and was a true caregiver. Her kids and her grandbabies were her whole world.
Survivors include her son, Steven “Jr” Tilley of Pittsburg, KS; her daughter, Rachel Martin-Russell (Dalton) of Pittsburg, KS; five grandchildren – Maggie, Talan, Daisie, Hunter and Dakota “Kota”; two sisters, Tina Gaches (Gene) and Jackie Leathers (Cody); and one brother, Timmy Smalley (Donna). She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother Steve, and husband, Chris.
A celebration of life will be held on June 7, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Lighthouse Church, located at 604 S. 200th Street, Pittsburg, KS 66762. The family is accepting donations to help cover end-of-life expenses. A donation box will be available at the service, or contributions may be mailed to Rachel Martin at P.O. Box 162, Caney, KS 67333.
Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, MO.