“There is something about losing a mother that is permanent and inexpressible – a wound that will never quite heal” Quote by Susan Wiggs.

“Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy.” Eskimo legend

“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in (our) hearts.” Quote by Mahatma Ghandi

It is with great sadness that my brothers and I share the passing of our mom, Jewel Neri Richardson VanGunten on March 12,2023.

Our mom meant everything to us and everyone should take the time to let loved ones know you care.

Mom was always there whenever we needed her and did what she could to help us out. She always remembered the birthdays and anniversaries of her children and grandchildren. Mom attended most musical concerts or plays that any of her family were involved in and graduations from nursery, middle and high schools. Mom loved the beach and seagulls, was a big fan of the Boston Bruins and spent many hours watching their games.

Jewel was very proud of her all of her children and grandchildren. Sons David Richardson, Benjamin Richardson, Jr and Joshua Richardson all served in the United States Marine Corps as did Joshua’s son, Adam Richardson. Grandson Sean Ruby served as member of the Massachusetts National Guard.

Jewel was adopted as an infant by Spartico and Harriet Neri shortly after her birth in February, 1940. She grew up in Rockville, CT and summered on Cape Cod with her parents and siblings for years. In 1963 Jewel moved permanently to the Cape where she lived out her life.

Jewel had a number of family members who went before her including both parents, a sister, Kay Mannel and brother, Charles Neri. Others include her late husband, Lawrence VanGunten, whom she met while living in Florida. Two sons, Benjamin Richardson, Jr, and Joshua Richardson as well as two granddaughters, Angela Ruby (daughter of Marlaine and Mark Ruby) and Brianna Richardson (daughter of Joshua and Angela Richardson Brewster).

Surviving family members include her brother, Melvin Neri, who resides in Las Vegas, Nevada; one daughter, Marlaine Ruby and son-in-law Mark Ruby of South Yarmouth, MA along with their children Matthew, Sean and Meghan; David Richardson of Dennis, MA; Kevin Richardson and daughter-in-law Debi Richardson of South Yarmouth, MA and their daughter Mellissa; daughter-in-law Becky Richardson (wife of the late Benjamin Richardson, Jr)of South Yarmouth and their daughter Mikaelah; daughter-in-law Angela Richardson Brewster (wife of the late Joshua Richardson) and their son, Adam Richardson and step-daughter, Elizabeth VanGunten Daniels of Ohio.

Our mom was a strong woman who basically raised her five children on her own. We had a good life filled with the love and support given to us by our mom.

The five of us were raised to respect each other and others all growing to be down to earth people who always our family first. Jewel was very proud of all of her children and grandchildren and never forgot birthdays or life events. Each of us have our own special memories of our mom and grandmother. These memories will always remind of us of the strong woman who always gave all she could to those she loved. She raised five wonderful children and helped to care for her grandchildren whenever she was needed.

There are many friends left behind, including her good friend, Norma Kelley. Norma was always there to provide Mom with support and assistance running errands or getting to appointments. Mom and Norma spent a lot of time taking rides to the beach or other adventures as well. Mom also had a number of friends who lived in the same apartment complex as she, including neighbors and the staff at the facility. We will always be thankful for the love and care they gave our mom.

We will always love you, Mom and will always strive to be the people you raised us to be!

Rest in Peace…

Our Mom will be laid to rest on Friday, June 9, 2023 at Pine Grove Cemetery in South Yarmouth, Ma (it is located off of Station Avenue) and a luncheon gathering held at the Yarmouth Moose Lodge on Route 28, South Yarmouth beginning at 12:00 pm.

Rest Easy now my friend you have given all you could here on earth. it is now time to move on to other horizons and other journeys.Thank you for your loving friendship through the years and being a support for me when I needed you.I will truly miss you and all our little adventures we shared. Until the next time. I love you.