Christa Riordan

Christa Harkness Riordan, 49, passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2025. She was born in St. Louis in 1975 where she attended Villa Duchesne High School before attending Miami University and majoring in psychology & mastering in gerontology. Christa worked many years in social services in Butler County serving the needs of the elderly before retiring to stay at home and pour her love, support, and devotion entirely into her girls. Her love for Jessica and Micaela became the new legacy she was leaving behind.

Christa was preceded in death by her mother, Carol (Schennum) Harkness and is survived by her husband Steve Riordan, daughters Micaela and Jessica, dog Rooster, cats Walmart, Gypsy, and Fairy Styles. She is also survived by her father, Alan (Karen) Harkness, brother Bradford Harkness, in-laws, cousins, aunts, uncle, nephews, and a niece.

Christa made a home that was a reflection of her creative spirit – part art gallery, part antique shop, and entirely full of love. Just like her garden, Christa was unconventional, independent, and beautiful in her untamed way. Her passion was looking for uniquerocks on the beaches of Michigan and at her dad’s home in Missouri as well as reading her favorite mystery novels. Her Christmas cards were legendary and looked upon as the season’s gift, even if the humor was lost on some. She didn’t bring questions or judgement She was there to simplify the complexities of life with a perfectly timed 4 letter word. Her passing has left those close to her remembering and cherishing what is gone too soon. 

Her life will be celebrated on Monday, October 27, 2025 at Hodapp Funeral Home in Liberty Township, Ohio at 10:00am. Feel free to wear an outfit of bold colors or a vintage relic as a tribute to her signature style and never-endingspirit.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:

Monarch Butterfly Fund – https:\\monarchconservation.org

Parachute (Butler County Court Appointed Advocate Volunteers for Youth) – www.parachutecasa.org

Purrfect Additions Inc – www.purrfectadditionsinc.com