HOPE — Viola Georgia (Brownell) Richardson passed away peacefully on May 5, 2024, at her home in Hope, Maine surrounded by her family. At age 96, she had become the oldest living resident in the town of Hope. She was born August 29, 1927, in Camden, Maine to Georgia May (Fernald) and Dunreath Fred Brownell.

After graduating from Camden High School in 1945, she attended Bryant Stratton Business College in Boston, Massachusetts, graduating in 1947. On February 4, 1949, she married Robert H. Richardson, and they had four children. 

During her lifetime, Viola worked in housekeeping in both Maine and Florida. She was a member of the First Congregational Church of Camden and the Eastern Star, Ivy Chapter #16, in Warren. She enjoyed traveling, spending winters with her son and daughter-in law in Florida, and many activities, most recently bowling with friends in Rockport.

Viola was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Robert H. Richardson; her siblings, Clara Wyman, Fred Brownell, Thelma Judkins and Donald Brownell; two stepsons, Robert Richardson, Jr. and Raymond Richardson.

She is survived by her children, Arlene Smith and companion, Arthur Tibbetts of Warren; Rose Thorn of Warren; Charles Richardson and wife, Debora of Hope, Maine and Lakeland, Florida; Mary Marston and companion Walter Stinson of South Hope; step-daughters Lucy Curtis of Old Town, and Polly White of Greenbush, and one step-son, Frank Richardson of Raytown, Missouri; 15 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and several great-great grandchildren, in addition to many nieces and nephews. 

Her granddaughter, Joan Belcher, RN was special to Viola, taking her on outings, picnics and involved with her healthcare.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 29, 2024, at 2 p.m., followed by a reception at the First Congregational Church, UCC, 55 Elm Street, Camden.

Private interment will be held in the Youngtown Cemetery, in Lincolnville. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Hope Historical Society, c/o Gwen Brodis, 367 Buzzell Hill Road, Hope, ME 04847.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com. Arrangements are with the Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain Street, Camden.