Shirley Ann (Constantine) Richardson

Shirley Ann Richardson, age 89, of Indianapolis, Indiana, (formerly, Grand Haven) passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, in Indiana. She was born on March 21, 1936, in Coopersville, MI, to the late August and Henrietta (De Frell) Constantine. Shirley married Robert “Bob” Richardson on August 25, 1956, in Nunica, MI. He preceded her in death on September 11, 2017, after 61 years of marriage.

Shirley graduated from Coopersville High School and was an active member of All Shores Wesleyan Church. She spent most of her life in Grand Haven, relocating to Indianapolis in 2022 to be closer to her son, Rob.

Dedicated to supporting children and their families through education, Shirley worked for Grand Haven Area Public Schools in a variety of positions for more than 30 years, most recently as a teacher’s aide. She especially enjoyed working with students who needed more personalized support, and she delighted in seeing those students succeed with her help.

In retirement, Shirley continued her commitment to young people and education by volunteering at Once & Again Upscale Resale owned by Grand Haven Christian School. There, she sorted and prepared countless pieces of jewelry for resale in support of the school, among other activities. She found immense satisfaction knowing that her efforts helped students access high quality education.

When not volunteering, Shirley enjoyed yearly trips to Clearwater Beach, FL, where she and Bob met up with many other “snowbird” friends, as well as annual excursions to Branson, MO, to attend a variety of musical performances. In later years, she became an avid Pokeno player. She could also often be found in her favorite sunny spot in her retirement community working alongside neighbors on a puzzle. Spring was her favorite time of year, and as a self-proclaimed “little Dutch girl,” she always welcomed the first tulips of the season.

Shirley will be lovingly remembered and missed by her son, Rob Richardson (Scott Kahler) of Indianapolis, IN; her brother, Ken Constantine of Parker, CO; her sister-in-law, Jan Hale of Grandville, MI; as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her sister, Norma Barhydt; and brother, Gordon Constantine.

A private family Graveside Service will take place at Lake Forest Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Memory of Shirley Richardson to the Grand Haven Schools Foundation (P.O. Box 272, Grand Haven, MI, 49417-in memo, please write ”In memory of Shirley Richardson”) or online at https://ghsf.org/donate-now/.

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