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Theresa Rickrode Obituary
Theresa P. Rickrode, 84, of Mountain Top, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, July 19, 2025. Born in Harrisburg, she was the daughter of the late Theresa and Paul Zimmerman. She graduated from John Harris High School and married her high school sweetheart, Jerry Rickrode "Rick," with whom she shared 57 years of marriage.
Theresa had a successful and distinguished career in customer service with United Parcel Service. After her retirement, she spent time volunteering at the Middletown Library and worked in her flower garden.
She was a devoted and loving wife and mother. The apple of Theresa's eye was her son, Jerry, who was the longtime men's basketball coach at Wilkes University. She and her husband, Rick, never missed a home game at the Marts Center and ventured all over the northeast to support the Colonels on the road.
Theresa was also extremely proud of her two grandchildren, Jordyn and Christian Rickrode. Some of her fondest memories were of times spent with them. Theresa and Rick attended every one of their events, including concerts, plays and graduations from kindergarten through college. She also loved her dog, Tiger; her cats, Blackie, Tao and Zorro; and her granddog, Dunkin.
Surviving are her sisters, Mary Miller and Grace Mellott; son, Jerry Rickrode and his wife, Kathleen; grandchildren, Jordyn and Christian Rickrode; and nephews, Earl Mellott and Rick LaVanture. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Rick.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Matinchek Funeral Home. Following a private family service, Theresa will be laid to rest in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.
The family would like to thank the staff at Allied Services Wilkes-Barre Rehab Hospital, Fritzingertown Senior Living Community, and Maylath Hospice Services for their tremendous care, support and compassion.
Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, July 28, 2025, in Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, 6701 Jonestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112. Matinchek Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 260 E. Main St., Middletown, PA, has been entrusted with handling the arrangements.
Contributions in her memory may be made to Maylath Hospice Service.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Theresa Rickrode
Marjorie Harman Stillions
July 28, 2025
Condolences to Jerry and family! As a teenager I used to sit with Mrs Zimmerman, Grace and your mom Theresa during the church services at Redeemer Lutheran in Harrisburg . I considered them close friends and great role models growing up! Sending prayers!
Chris S.
July 26, 2025
We will momma Theresa´s warm apple pies at our games and all the cheers . Momma Theresa donated her time to soup kitchen to feed the needy. May you rest in peace with the Lord.
Aniello Tambasco
July 25, 2025
Dear Rickrode Family,
Deepest and sincere condolences on your loss. Thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Deepest sympathy.
Justin Kraynack
July 25, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss, Coach. Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
-Justin
Judy Drabek Pascoe
July 25, 2025
Jerry, Cathy and family, I am so very sorry to hear about your Mom. I enjoyed being with her and your dad at all the games. What beautiful memories you have of a very special Mom and super fan of our colonels....she was so happy and excited to be a grandmother and gave me the biggest hug on the planet. Love and prayers for all of you.
Jackie Ruane
July 22, 2025
Jerry,
I am so sorry for your loss! Your Mom was so lucky to have a son like you. May she rest in peace.
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Matinchek Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.260 E. Main St, Middletown, PA 17057
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