Carole Deanna Richardson, age 85, of Trenton, and formerly of Bethalto, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Trenton Village surrounded by her loving family. She was born February 15, 1940, in Bethalto, a daughter of the late Clarence and Flora (nee Williams) Olson.
In addition to her parents, Carole was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Richardson, whom she married December 21, 1957, in Bethalto and who died January 20, 1981; infant sister, Julia Olson; sister, Helen (John) Nagy; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Geroge and Eleanor (nee Peters) Richardson; and brother-in-law, Eric McDowell.
Carole is survived by her daughters, Cindy (Cameron) McDermid of Buda, TX, Holly (Roger) Maue of Trenton, and Julie (Brian) Davis of Trenton; grandchildren, Ryan (Krista) McDermid, Melissa (Chris) Petzolt, Monica (Tyler) Brown, J.R. McDermid, Kimberly (Ryan) Macy, Brent (Maritza) Maue, Brett (fiancée, Grace Burns) Davis, and Alexa (Max) Boland; fourteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Sue (David) Bail of Cibolo, TX; sister-in-law, Linda Sue McDowell of Wood River; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Carole dedicated many years of service at Memorial Hospital in Belleville, working in social services, where she touched countless lives with her compassion and dedication. She was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church and Ladies Bible Study in Trenton, as well as a member of Trenton Tumbleweeds, Gold Star Wives, and the Red Hat Club. A former Brownie and Girl Scout leader, Carole also spent many years selling Avon.
Affectionately known as “Gran Bam,” Carole was an avid dance grandma, never missing a competition. She had a creative and nurturing spirit, enjoying sewing, cooking, baking, and gardening. She especially loved caring for her African violets, which she proudly entered into county fairs while living in California.
Family was at the center of Carole’s world. She cherished large family gatherings, adored her grandchildren, and held a special closeness with her nieces and nephews.
Memorial Service will be held Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Trenton with Pastor Rena Whitcher officiating.
Visitation will be Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Trenton.
In lieu of flowers, plants, and other gifts, memorials may be made to the Clinton County Humane Society, American Heart Association, or Clinton County Snack Pack Program and will be received at the visitation or by mail, Moss Funeral Home, 105 S. Main St. Trenton, IL 62293, who is serving the family.
