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Racheal MORRIS Obituary
MORRIS, Racheal Anilyse Verdicchio
Racheal Anilyse Verdicchio Morris, 27, of Wethersfield left this life for another on November 18, 2011. She was surrounded by her family who gave her great peace and comfort to help her on her next journey. Racheal is the beautiful daughter of John and Laura Morris of Wethersfield and the best big sister to Ethan, Sydney and Hannah. Racheal's greatest achievement in life was being an artist. She graduated from the University of Hartford School of Art, Magna Cum Laude in 2006 earning a BFA in Illustration and a minor in Visual Communication Design and Art History. She was an accomplished illustrator and created and published an online magazine for art students called the Underground Art School (undergroundartschool.com). She is also an accomplished children's book illustrator domestically and internationally under her trade name RachealAnilyse (rachealanilyse.com). Racheal was a contributor to the art and illustration blog Pikaland. She loved hand drawn typography, children's books, tea, hats, baby animals and dance parties. Racheal is survived by her grandparents Thomas and Jane Verdicchio of Lempster New Hampshire and William and Ann Morris of Wethersfield; 22 aunts and uncles and 31 cousins. Racheal truly enjoyed spending time with her family each summer at Emerald Isle, North Carolina where she would spend the day reading and creating art while watching the waves. She loved to spend time in New Hampshire with her grandparents where Granma would read her tea leaves, or on Squam Lake with Aunt Mary, Uncle Tony and her cousins taking a sunset sail on the Lake, or vacationing with her family in Paris, taking in the city and all it's history, especially the art. Racheal was blessed to have Angela and Roberta who were her caregivers for the past two years, and Cathy Melillo, who cared for Racheal for 12 years before retiring. Racheal had many wonderful friends whom she loved dearly. Art was the way Racheal communicated. It was her greatest desire that everyone should experience art in any form.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Rose Foundation of Haiti, 637 Wyckoff Avenue, PMB 320, Wyckoff, NJ 07481, which has established the Racheal Anilyse Art Initiative. Family and friends are invited to the D'Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Boulevard, Wethersfield, on Tuesday (November 22) from 4-7p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday (November 23) at 10 a.m. at Corpus Christi Church, 601 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield. The burial will follow in Village Cemetery, Wethersfield. Everyone is asked to please go directly to church. It is Racheal's wish that everyone please wear bright colors at her funeral mass. For online expressions of sympathy please visit www.desopo.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Racheal MORRIS
Dr. Diane Hoss
December 13, 2022
I think of you often Racheal. You hold a special place in my heart. Hugs to your special Mom.
Michael Mussman
July 23, 2012
Racheal and I went to Hartford Art School together. We didn't necessarily travel in the same circles but our paths crossed quite often and I can say, in complete honesty, that Racheal was one of the nicest people I've ever met. With all that she had been through in life she always managed to have a positive attitude and kind words. I am very happy to have known her and it saddens me deeply to hear the news that she has passed on. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Katherine Moss & Johnny Gallagher
January 14, 2012
We are both very saddened by the news that our friend has passed away. She was such an inspiration to us, not just creatively but in her positivity and enthusiasm. We shall miss her greatly and send our deepest sympathies to her family and friends.
Julia Da Rocha
January 12, 2012
I just heard the news today and I am shocked. I didn't know her personally but I knew her through her art. Because of Racheal, I went back to drawing. I didn't know I had it in me - She helped sparked my love for art and what a great gift she has given me. Thank you Racheal.
Andrew Verdicchio
December 18, 2011
Dear Laura & Family
So many of us,borne with so much more,have accomplished so much less than did Racheal in her short but creative life. Racheal is a wonderful example for all of us that despite almost insurmountable odds the human spirit can triumph. Racheal left us her gift of art that we can enjoy for the rest of our lives. Thank you Racheal. I am so proud to be your cousin.
Cat Campbell
November 29, 2011
I didn't know Racheal, but as someone who loves art in all it's forms, she sounds like she touched this life in a special way and had a beautiful spirit. I'm sure she will be greatly missed by all that knew her.
My deepest sympathy goes out to her family and friends. It is a truly remarkable soul that can touch so many in so short a time.
Frenchelle
November 28, 2011
While I didn't know Racheal, I've peeked at a part of her world online. Twenty-seven years of pure remarkable beauty on this earth. Many blessings to the family.
Joan Maulucci
November 27, 2011
So very sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved daughter
Paul Todaro
November 26, 2011
I have lots of fond memories growing up with Racheal at Charles Wright and all the way up through WHS... She was truly a nice person who worked to brighten everyone's day. My thoughts and prayers are with the family...
November 26, 2011
You'll be forever in our hearts!
L. Alexandra Dest
November 23, 2011
I remember her fondly, her positive attitude, her perseverance....really quite remarkable. It is a remarkable soul like Rachael's that teaches us so much about life.
Thomas Verdicchio
November 23, 2011
My thoughts are with the families at this difficult time. While I was never fortunate to meet Racheal, I have heard inspirational stories about her from her uncle (Joe V). Now, looking at her art and her words, I can see that her candle shone brightly but sadly not nearly long enough. And after reading the notes of love and support in the guestbook, it is apparent that her spirit for life touched everyone around her: that is what will keep her forever alive in the hearts and thoughts of her family and her friends. May God bless.
Kevin Miner
November 22, 2011
I remember Rachael as an exemplary human being. Her smile, the look her eyes and the tone of her voice could brighten anyone's day. It would such a pleasure to have known such an exceptional human being.
I remember growing up in Wethersfield, occaisionally seeing Rachael wizz past me on her roller skates. Her ambition, like her talent, was limitless. She will continue to be an inspiration to us all.
Leandra M
November 22, 2011
My prayers are with your family. She was an amazing person. I went to High School with her and all I have are great memories of her. As am sure you do too!!! <3 <3
November 22, 2011
A beautiful soul.
Lisa Morin
November 22, 2011
Dear Laura and Family,
I did not know Racheal very well, but know that she was a true inspiration and beautiful young woman. Racheal's spirit will be with you always. My prayers are with your family.
Ann Morin
November 22, 2011
Dear Laura and Family,
I met Rachel once and knew she was such an amazing person. I am so glad to have met her. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
November 22, 2011
To Racheal's Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. While I didn't know Racheal, I was touched by her obituary and looked at her website. Her work is absolutely beautiful, and I spent a lot of time looking at it. She had a true gift. May she rest in peace.
Marilyn Rice
November 22, 2011
Dear Laura and Family,
Racheal's creativity and spirit continue to shine brightly in her art, which is her gift for all. May memories of your beautiful, talented daughter comfort you at this time.
Darlene West
November 22, 2011
Dear Laura and family,
Racheal's was beautiful, her life was full and her joy evident in the many gifts she has given to so many. In this difficult time, may you and your family find peace and comfort in knowing that love knows no boundaries and Racheal will remain alive in your hearts and you in her's throughout eternity. Our prayers are with you.
The West Family
Ellen & Tim Morris
November 21, 2011
Dear Laura, John, Ethan, Sydney & Hannah,
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in our family and in your friends that are all around you. We share your sorrow and mourn the loss of Racheal. Know that our hearts are broken too.
Marlene Gatzak
November 21, 2011
Dear Laura and family,
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Jim Wallace
November 21, 2011
James George
November 21, 2011
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you and the rest of your family as you grieve the loss of a loved one that has departed who is watching over you.
Carly Corrigan
November 21, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss. Words cannot express how saddened I was to learn of Racheal's passing. She was, and continues to be, an inspiration to all who knew her. Racheal was truly an example of what it means to be a strong person. She had such a zest for life and I always admired that. It seems like just yesterday we were playing over each other's houses, having sleepovers, and doing things young girls love to do. She was one of my first friends and will always be in my heart.
Andy Adil
November 21, 2011
Racheal was a beautiful soul!! Her art & her ability to make everyone feel better around her made her one unforgettable lady. We will all miss her very much. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Morris & Verdicchio clans. We are truely blessed to have had her in our lives as long as we did.
Brendan Sullivan
November 21, 2011
I am privileged to have gotten to know Racheal at the HAS after remembering her from WHS. I was always inspired with her gift, and her ability to not let shortcomings keep her from showing the world how exceptional her talent was. I will hold her message and memory with me throughout my life. My sympathies for all of you.
Sabrina Mollica
November 21, 2011
So sorry to hear about the loss of such an inspirational and courageous woman. I'm glad I was able to know her in high school even for the short time I did. My condolences to your family during this hard time.
Greg & Nikki Klang
November 21, 2011
My wife and I only met Racheal once at a benefit we were invited to. We were very moved and gifted by the love, friendship, energy & humor the entire family shared for Racheal and each other and we were moved by the experience. Please accept our deepest condolences. Greg & Nikki (friends of Joe V.)
Cheryl Kissinger
November 21, 2011
Dear Laura and family,
My sincere condolences. May God bless you and comfort you during this difficult time.
Liz Lemiska
November 21, 2011
Dear Laura and family,
May joyful and loving memories sustain you today and always. Racheal has left a beautiful, courageous footprint.....
Africka Hinds-Ayala
November 21, 2011
The gifts of love and art that remains with us will always remain with us. The beauty and joy she created will forever be cherished. Blessing of comfort and peace to the entire Verdicchio - Morris Family.
Zach Hewitt
November 20, 2011
So sad to hear about this. I went to H.A.S. with Racheal. She was so friendly...so upbeat...and had a great sense of humor. She was extremely talented as an artist and experimented endlessly with new mediums and forums for her work. My favorite memories of her are from Fiona and Maria's parties, playing cards and dancing until the wee hours... also, just seeing her paint so precisely and intensely in the studios. A wonderful person. She will be missed...
kim durba
November 20, 2011
Dear laura and entire family,
I'm sorry I didn't know rachel but it sounds like God certainly used her life to further his purposes amen. That should be all our goals so I have no doubt she has the best seat at the big feast of the lamb.
Vicki Veltri
November 20, 2011
Dear Laura, John and family - I know what a special woman Racheal is, and I think she took along with her the warmth and spirit you created and nurtured in her, as well as your unconditional love and support. My deepest sympathies and love to all of you.
marisol vargas
November 20, 2011
I was Racheal classmate at at the Hartford Art School. She was very funny, and sweet. Her passion for Art was a great inspiration for me.
Sorry for your loss
Marisol Vargas
Amber Arpin
November 20, 2011
I went to school with Racheal at the Hartford Art School and I had so much respect for her. She was strong and always positive
Catherine Salvatore
November 20, 2011
I am so sorry to hear about Rachael. She was an amazing artist and I distinctly remember the first time I met her when I was visiting UHA. She was bright, cheerful, and painting. I was amazed to see someone so un-phased by adversity and with such talent. She was a wonderful person with a great sense of humor. I am grateful to have met her and had the pleasure of her friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
November 20, 2011
I only had the pleasure of meeting Racheal once - at one of Tom and Jane's anniversary parties. I was humbled by this child (as she was at the time) whose love of life and brightness filled the room beyond measure. Her zest and exuberance will always infuse my memory of her. My prayers and thoughts are with her parents, siblings, and indeed all her family in this time of sadness.
Annamaria Verdicchio, Greenfield Park, Quebec
Jenn Lohmann
November 20, 2011
Racheal was one of the greatest friends I will ever have. She was an inspiration to anyone who had the chance to encounter her. Her life and spirit will forever live on in the lives she touched with her talent, positivity, her amazing sense of humor and love for those around her. I can't express in words how much she meant to me or how I will miss her. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this time.
Nancy Chapman
November 20, 2011
I am so sorry for the loss of your Racheal. She spent many days playing at our house with my daughter, Carly. She was always so kind to Derek, my son even though he would interrupt their play. I remember her drawing a bunny for me, and I could not believe the detail and beauty. She was truly talented and special from a very young age. She will remain in our hearts forever!!! Love to all of you at this very difficult time.
Jody Rowell
November 20, 2011
Laura, John and Family, there are no words to soften this loss you have been hoping might never happen. I spent the last couple days getting to know Racheal through her art on line. She truly was an admiration in art and incredibly courageous as a person, though I would say with what I have learned, those two elements of her were inseparable. Blessings to you all during this journey. Our deepest love from the Rowell-Fredine family.
Tom, Cindi, Erin and Shauna The Matthews Family
November 20, 2011
Our deepest sympathy to your family. We have very fond memories of Racheal's company as a child in the neighborhood and watching her grown into a talented, accomplished young woman.
November 20, 2011
My dearest friend,
there are just not enough words
much love
Michelle
Dorrie Volpe
November 20, 2011
Dear Morris Family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your loved one, may all the precious memories help you through the days ahead.
Dorrie Volpe,, John,Daniel and Rachel Zewinski
Rosemary Morganti Ames
November 20, 2011
When I see an exceptionally gorgeous sunrise or starlight sky I will know that Racheal has brought her artistic talent up to heaven to continue to share her love with us. John, Laura and family I send my heartfelt condolences and love.
Silvio Albino
November 20, 2011
Dear John, Laura and kids -- In all my life, I never met a more courageous person than Racheal. Thinking of all of you. Silvio
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