Obituary of Dorothy Richardson

RICHARDSON, Dorothy Jean (Howarth) Peacefully passed away on July 14, 2009 in her 98th year. Loving wife of the late Dr. Harold Richardson and a caring stepmother to Robin (Karen) Richardson, Jim (Luba Lyons) Richardson, Patricia Harley, Penny Ghartey and Peter (Gillian) Richardson. Fondly remembered by nephew Robert (Nadya) Murdoch, nieces Sally (Harry) Beattie and Moira Murdoch and brother-in-law Bill Murdoch. Predeceased by her sister Betty Murdoch. Will be missed by the many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-nieces and nephews and friends. A renowned reporter for the Toronto Telegram and the first woman to win a National Newspaper Award in its inaugural year in 1949, Dorothy was known as 'The Sponge' in acquiring details to write inspiring and insightful stories. She left her beloved Saskatchewan to go 'East' to later become a self-described 'sob sister' for the Telegram and the Vancouver Sun. When inducted into the Canadian News Hall of Fame in 2001, it was noted that Dorothy was ladylike, friendly, unflappable and courteous - a tiger, who knew that journalism was all about life - the essence of her feature writing. A celebration of her life will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2009 at the Al Dente Restaurant in Pickering, Ontario from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., following the interment at 9:30 a.m. in Pine Hills Cemetery, Scarborough. If desired, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. Family and friends are invited to send memories and condolences online to www.humphreymiles.com.