Jackie Ann Richards

Jackie Ann Richards (née Weleczki) of St. Paul, MN was born on November 22, 1966 and passed away on February 26, 2024 peacefully surrounded by her loving family. Jackie battled breast cancer valiantly until the age of 57.

Jackie is survived by her beloved mother, Suzanne Weleczki; 8 adoring siblings, Davee Weleczki, Toree Weleczki (Ray Miller), Alan Weleczki, Ruthee Weleczki (Eric Wieffering), Lisa (Todd) Iliff, Sally Weleczki-Cmiel (Greg Cmiel), Jodie Weleczki (her special twinster), Michael (Nicole) Weleczki; and the love of her life, Jim Richards. 

She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Kahle (Sara Joy) Addyman, Ali Miller, Helen, Freddy (Kristina), Leo and Henry Wieffering, Izzy and Nate Iliff, Max and Frankie Weleczki-Cmiel, Magdalena and Clementine Weleczki; and her great nephews, Chev Addyman, and Fritz and Wally Wieffering; her extended family and cousins, the Bonine, Calva, Laffen and Lindquist families, numerous friends, and her “adopted sister", Kelly Boland. Jackie dearly loved and is loved by us all.

She is preceded in death by her father, Charles Weleczki.

Jackie was an intrepid soul who was always up for adventure. She was a lover of music and art, with a deep reverence for nature. Jackie loved the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills of Ireland, the timelessness of the Shenandoah River and sitting on her deck overlooking her garden while the sun lit her face. What mattered to her most were her people, sharing good conversation over a meal, and the simple beauties and pleasures of life.

She was a literal tree hugger, loyal friend, dedicated sister, caring aunt, and loving daughter who was always up for rigorous debate. She would appear for a pop-in, or a surprise hug, and every season we could expect a bundle of farm-fresh, hand-picked asparagus to magically show up on our doorsteps.

She was steadfast in putting the needs of others ahead of her own. Even in the end from her hospital bed,  our girl worked tirelessly to heal her family, bring them closer, and strengthen their kinship.  A gift we will forever cherish.

We miss her dearly. Her smile, her vibrancy and her flaring nostrils in moments of dogged defense of her principles. We take solace in knowing Jackie finds herself once again, in the arms of her loving dad.

A Celebration of Jackie's Life will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, August 24 at the Muriel Sahlin Arboretum, 2525 Dale St. N., Roseville. 

In lieu of flowers, donations preferred to your charity of choice or to The Gifted Tree Program

Big Big Love.