Our beloved Abby passed away from a tragic accident at Delmo Lake on August 27, 2023. Abigail Malynn Richards was born October 23, 2002, in Butte. She lived her whole life here and touched many hearts with her kindness and joy.
What she lacked in academics, she made up for in social skills, achieving one of her biggest goals by graduating from Butte High, 2022. Then she moved to work toward her dream of becoming a CNA. Abby loved participating in Special Olympics, babysitting babies, having fun, driving and going out to lunch.
Abby is preceded in death by her Great grandma, Jean Burns and her grand-dog, Caleb.
Abby is survived by her mom, Kelley McElderry; brother, Levi; her Papa and Grandma, Larry and Bonnie McElderry; father and stepmom, Dave and Misty Richards; stepsisters and brothers, Gabriella, Andrew, Bradon, Victoria and Jax; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.
Memorials in honor of Abby are suggested to the funeral home or her family to assist in offsetting funeral expenses. You may send a check made payable to “Axelsons” or a family member and mail directly to the Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services, 2009 Harrison Ave., Butte, MT 59701.
Please visit below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Abby.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
2:00 p.m.
Friday September 1, 2023
Laquinta Inn & Suites - Event room
1 Holiday Park
Butte, Montana 59701
Service Schedule
Celebration of Her Life
2:00 p.m.
Friday September 1, 2023
Laquinta Inn & Suites - Event room
1 Holiday Park
Butte, Montana 59701
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Ed warren says
When Abby was at Emerson during kindergarten she would walk around holding my hand during recess and talk with me. I was also on her school bus during her senior year. I enjoyed talking with her. My wife was with her at Hillcrest and would push her on the swings. Our hearts are sad at her passing a way. The memories we have of her will be in our hearts .
Shayna paquette says
Abby was my best friend she was not just my best friend she was my sister we got so close in just a week and I know that Abby had to be the one that I will be friends with for the rest of my life I will never forget the day we met and I will never forget how kind and sweet she was I will never forget her beautiful laugh and smiles
Heidi Apley says
I remember her always being full of life and making me laugh she was a very sweet person I will never forget about her and will be deeply missed 😭❤🙏R.I.P babygirl
Shani Bailey says
Bonnie and family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you. Abby was such a sweet person. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time.
Randy Miller says
Dear Bonnie/Larry, Kelley and family,
Leslie and I are deeply saddened by the news of Abby’s death. We are holding you all in hour hearts and prayers as you navigate the grief attached to this tragedy. May God’s tender mercies cover you during these days. Much love,
Randy and Leslie Miller