Diane Richardson

Diane Marie Richardson, age 79, of Lucas, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday March 4, 2025, after a long illness.

Born on August 20, 1945, in a St. Louis hospital to Jake Sprock and Dorothy Nolan, Diane lived a life defined by love, service, and unwavering spirit. Her early life was shaped by her loving grandparents, Tom and Mineola "Minnie" Nolan, who helped raise her while her father served in World War II. This beginning instilled in her a resilience and strength that would define her character throughout her life. An unsinkable force of nature with a heart for the underdog, she touched countless lives with her compassion and dedication to others.

Diane is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Ken Richardson, whom she married on May 29, 1962. Their enduring partnership over the decades was a powerful testament to their love, commitment, and devotion. She is also survived by her daughter, Tricia Johnstone; sons, Ed Richardson and Matt Richardson; sisters, Patsy Burd-Looney and Dot Williamson; and six beloved grandchildren: Christopher Johnstone, Rachel Johnstone, Matt Sanford, Micah Richardson, Carter Richardson, and Kate Richardson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jake Sprock and Dorothy Nolan, as well as her brother George who died as an infant. At the end of her life, she was really looking forward to meeting him in Heaven.

Throughout her life, Diane's love for her family, animals, and her deep and abiding faith in Jesus were at the core of who she was. Her Christian faith was a cornerstone of her life, with Christmas Midnight Mass holding a special place in her heart. Diane valued education deeply, graduating with honors from high school as a young mother and later earning her Bachelor's degree in both Business Management and Computer Science from Kent State University, graduating Magna Cum Laude alongside her daughter Tricia in 1985. Her work in computer programming brought her great fulfillment at the City of Plano, where she had a long and impactful career making life better for her community. 

Diane's gift for serving others wasn't just something she practiced—it was a value she instilled in her children, creating a legacy that will continue for generations. She found joy in creativity through quilting and scrapbooking so many wonderful treasures, and was an avid reader throughout her life. Diane's strength during difficult times, her warm humor, and her dedication to family reflected the resilience she developed from an early age.

Diane's absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her spirit lives on in the countless ways she shaped her family and community.

Memorial services are planned for Sunday, March 9, 2025 at:

Address: Charles W. Smith and Sons Funeral Home

 2343 Gage Road, Lavon TX 75166

Viewing: 1:00 pm

Service 2:00 pm

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Collin County Animal Shelter: https://apps.collincountytx.gov/Forms/AnimalDonations

The family especially wishes to thank all the wonderful medical staff who worked tirelessly to provide her such wonderful care over the years.