Irma Jean Richards

Irma Jean Richards, 70, of Newtown, Connecticut, passed away on March 4, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born in St. Albans, Vermont, in 1955 to Harvey and Lillian Poquette, Irma moved with her father to New Milford, Connecticut, in 1973 following her mother’s unexpected death. She graduated from St. Joseph High School and later met the love of her life, Louie Richards, while working at the Fireside Inn in Newtown. They married on May 17, 1975, and shared 38 years of marriage and many cherished adventures until Louie’s passing in 2013.

Irma and Louie raised two sons, Christopher Richards of Simpsonville, South Carolina, and his wife Amanda, and Conrad Richards of Newtown, Connecticut, and his wife Ruth. She took great joy in her grandchildren: Savannah, Tyler, and Sabrina. In her later years, Irma found happiness again with Phil Bowler of Newtown, sharing the last eight years together. She supported her family through many years of work, first at Ashler of Newtown for ten years and then at TJ Maxx in Newtown for thirty years before retiring. Retirement allowed her to fully embrace time with family, friends, and travel.

Known throughout the area as one of the sweetest, kindest, and most gentle souls, Irma touched everyone she met with her loving nature. She is survived by her older sisters, Teresa and Evelyn of northern Vermont, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins along the eastern seaboard. Her family will remember her gentle spirit and the warmth she brought to every gathering.