RICHARDS, Mary Frances (Shinabarger) – of Flint, Michigan, age 78, passed away Monday, February 9, 2026, at Regency at Grand Blanc. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 1 PM Monday, February 23, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 404 N. Dayton St., Davison, MI 48423; Fr. Denis Spitzley celebrant. Interment will be in Pine Grove Cemetery. There will be one hour of visitation prior to the Mass on Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, beginning at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to help with funeral expenses (donations can be made via Venmo to Mary’s daughter, Marianne, at @MaryFrancismemorial).
Mary was born on October 11, 1947, in Newport News, Virginia, the cherished daughter of the late Delbert and Lula (Berry) Shinabarger. On June 18, 1966, she married the love of her life, John Richards, in Burton, Michigan, beginning a devoted partnership that would span decades and countless treasured memories. Mary found joy in life’s simple pleasures and the people she loved most. She was a proud and faithful supporter of University of Michigan football, an avid reader, and an admirer of hummingbirds. She shared laughter and friendship with her women’s crochet group who were affectionately known as “The Hookers.” Family was at the heart of everything Mary did. She especially cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer them on at sporting events and activities. She loved attending family reunions, creating memories that will be carried on for generations. Her beloved dog, Vienna, held a special place in her heart, offering faithful companionship and unconditional love. Mary had a passion for shopping, a treasured collection of cookbooks, and a love of travel that took her as far as Alaska and across Europe. Her home was often filled with the familiar sounds of Bob Seger and Elvis Presley – music that served as the soundtrack of many happy moments. Spunky, stubborn, and deeply loving, Mary stood her ground for what she believed in. Her strength of spirit, unwavering convictions, and generous heart will be remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and fierce devotion to her family.
Mary is survived by her loving husband, John; children: Shawn (Earla) Richards, Rodney (Ginger Conger) Richards, Melissa (Ronald) Fenner and Marianne (Gregory) Austin; grandchildren: Jordyn (Sergio), Emily (Trevor), Dominic (Daylynn), Brooke, Kirstin (Josh), Hannah, Desirah (Josiah), Pamela, Hunter and Brody; 11 great grandchildren; sisters: Brenda (John) Howe and Bernice (Phil) Kehoe; nieces, nephews, and many other loving family members and friends. She was preceded in death by brother, Raymond D. Shinabarger.
