Linda Birkins (Couch) Hardisty Richmond

Linda Birkins (Couch) Hardisty Richmond, also known to many as Birkie, 81, departed this life on January 3, 2021 at Waterbury Hospital. She was the beloved wife of Frederick Richmond Jr. Linda was born in New Milford, CT on October 23, 1939 to the late Clifford and Margaret (Platt) Couch. She was raised in New Preston, Connecticut and was a graduate of the Washington High School class of 1957.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughters, Lisa Bennett of Bethlehem, and Lynnette Hardisty of Oakville, and her sons Russell Hardisty of Woodbury and Daryl Hardisty of Waterbury. As well as Fred's children Debra Laughlin of Florida and Cheryle Kovalaski of Torrington. Her brother George Couch, of Torrington. She also leaves many grandchildren and great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews. Too many to list. Linda is predeceased by her sister Nancy Poletto and granddaughter, Lucy Hardisty.

There is nothing Linda wouldn't do for her loved ones. Linda planned and/or showed up for every milestone and celebration in her family's life. Sports games, birthdays, dance recitals, award ceremonies, graduations, weddings, you named it she was there. Linda took immense pride in her work as a school bus driver for nearly 30 years. Most of those years were spent working for Region 15. Linda worked right up to her death as she would jokingly say "when you retire you expire." The last six years of her life she drove for EdAdvance. She became close with many of the students whom she drove and their families. Before driving a school bus she worked at the Louis shop in Woodbury as well as the Woodbury Pewter. Linda worked very hard to provide for her family which she raised in Woodbury, often juggling two jobs.

Linda will be remembered for her generous heart and always giving to others. She loved country music and would often have dance parties with her grandchildren. Linda looked forward to going to the casino a few times a year with friends and family. She would regularly have her kids and grandkids over to play cards where many hours were spent playing spades and setback. Linda also had an amazing group of friends who she would meet with regularly for breakfast. She always had quite the social life. Her absolute favorite activity though was shopping. She loved fashion and had so much fun putting together outfits. Linda never left the house without her clothes matching perfectly from head to toe. Linda is going to be dearly missed. Please consider donating to the American Lung Association.

A memorial service will take place on Thursday, January 14 at 5:30 pm at Carpino Funeral Home, 750 Main St. South, Southbury, CT. Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation prior to service from 4 to 5:30 pm. The Carpino Funeral Home of Southbury has been entrusted with the arrangements. To leave a message of remembrance, please visit www.CarpinoCares.com.

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