Deanna “Dee” Richards

Deanna “Dee” Richards, 62, of Idaho Falls, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home on November 13, 2024. She was under the gentle care of her beloved family and Symbii Hospice.

Born on September 8, 1962, in Idaho Falls, Dee was the daughter of Darrell Gene Richards and Geraldine Watson Bailey. She spent her early years in Arco, Coltman, and Idaho Falls, attending school and growing up with her siblings, creating cherished memories along the way.

Dee was known for her free spirit and adventurous soul. She had a lifelong love for rock and roll, motorcycles, and all things that kept her vibrant and young at heart. Her days were happily spent in the company of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her loyal dog, Rusty, all of whom were by her side when she peacefully passed.

Dee made her home in Shelley, Idaho, where she raised her children, Eli, Alex, Heidi, and Anna. She worked as a waitress and was known for her dedication to her work and the joy she brought to those she served. Dee had many hobbies that enriched her life, including sewing, crocheting, quilting, gardening, reading, and shopping. She was famous among family and friends for her “Irish Goodbyes” and especially for her infectious laugh, which made every moment brighter.

That infectious laugh and quick wit were as unforgettable as her warm, generous nature. She had a way of lighting up any room, and her sense of humor left an impression on everyone she met. Those who knew her best will always remember her laugh–a sound that, if you know, you know.

Dee is survived by her sons, Eli Omer Bustamante and Alex Gene Bustamante, both of Idaho Falls; her daughters, Heidi Lynn Richards and Anna Maria Chaidez, both of Idaho Falls, and Verna Dustin of Chandler, AZ; her sisters, Carol (Mark) Elliott of Idaho Falls, Nancy Jo Powell of Nampa, ID, and Shirlene Richards of Campbell, CA; her brother, Craig (Suzanne) Richards of Weston, ID; along with eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and her beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her maternal grandparents, Lester and Ruby Watson; her paternal grandparents, Shirley and Gladys Richards; her nephew, Chad Ray Elliott; and her brother, Dirk Richards. Dee’s family takes comfort in knowing she is now reunited with those who went before her.

A service celebrating Dee’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at Wood Funeral Home, located at 273 N. Ridge Avenue in Idaho Falls. Family and friends are invited to gather from 10-10:45 a.m. to share memories and pay their respects. Following the service, inurnment will take place at Rose Hill Cemetery. The family will have a luncheon in her honor following the inurnment.

Dee’s family invites you to honor her memory by remembering her laughter, her spirited personality, and her unwavering love for life.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.woodfuneralhome.com.