Jeanette Richards

Jeanette Marie Richards of Conway formerly of St. Louis, MO passed away August 13, 2025.

Jan, as she was known to her family, was born April 4, 1949, in Cape Girardeau, MO to Mary Bernice Garner Richards and Paul Vincent Richards. She attended Washington and Lorimier Elementary Schools and was the only one of her five siblings to receive a spanking at school.

Always hardheaded and a free spirit Jan left home at the age of 14 and never returned. She completed high school at the School of the Ozarks, and this led her to many unique opportunities. She worked at Silver Dollar City for a summer and some of her duties included riding in on a stagecoach and performing a skit in the street with other performers. She played a Can-Can girl and also ran the register in the gift shop. She attended college at Mizzou for over three years but chose not to graduate.

Jan had a love of drama and performed in many plays. Even being awarded Best Actress in 1967.

Leaving home early made an impression on Jan and she was always self-supporting. None of her family ever had to worry about having to provide for Jan financially.

In January 2023 Jan accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior and was baptized at Saltillo Heights Baptist Church.

Ms. Richards is survived by her brother Gary (Linda) Richards of Sun City, CA, sisters Mary Ann (Lawrence, Jr) Keesee of Vilonia, AR, Kay Bayne of St. Charles, MO, Susan (Russ) Barnes of Gillette, WY, Helen (Dennis) Snider, of Manito, IL. One special niece and caregiver Donna (Brent) Kelley of Conway, AR. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and additional family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, John Combs, brothers Paul James Richards, Kenneth Paul (Kenny) Richards, Infant John Paul Richards.

Memorial service will be held on September 20, 2025, at 3:30 PM and the family will receive visitors starting at 2:30 pm prior to service. It will take place at Saltillo Heights Baptist Church in Conway, AR.