Yvonne Karen Richards, a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, nurse, and friend, passed away on December 7, 2024, at the age of 62 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on February 17, 1962, to Mary Lou and Thomas Lange, Yvonne pursued her passion for nursing, dedicating 38 years to caring for newborns in the NICU. Her career began after graduating from nursing school, and she found her calling in nurturing the tiniest of patients. During a nursing assignment in Seattle, she met her husband, Randall Richards, with whom she shared a loving family of four children: Bryce, Megan, Aspen, and Logan.
Yvonne’s commitment to nursing was unwavering, even throughout her illness. She spent the last 23 years of her career at the HCA HealthOne Rose Medical Facility, where she was a beloved preceptor to many NICU staff members. Her dedication to her profession and colleagues was evident as she spent her final moments in the facility she considered a second home, surrounded by family and fellow nurses.
Predeceased by her parents, Yvonne is survived by her siblings, Annette and Bill Lange; her children, Bryce, Megan, Aspen, and Logan Richards; her daughter-in-law, Kassie Carlone; and her granddaughter, Zoe Richards.
In keeping with her lifelong commitment to education and helping others, Yvonne requested that her body be donated to science. Following the cremation of her remains, a Celebration of Life will be held. Yvonne’s legacy of compassion and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew her.
