Rachel DeFrangesco Richardson

In Loving Memory of Rachel DeFrancesco Richardson
"My Rae, My Pussycat"
June 2, 1949 - July 6, 2025
Rachel DeFrancesco Richardson, known lovingly as Rae—or Mimi to her grandchildren—passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, in Palm Coast, Florida, at the age of 76.
Born in Norristown, Pennsylvania, and raised in Bridgeport, Rae was brilliant, funny, and fiercely resilient. She studied Physics in Philadelphia before pursuing a career in Nursing, where she provided care with deep compassion. In 1980, she met her soulmate, Robert "Bob" Richardson, at Gwynedd-Mercy College. They married in 1982 and shared over 43 years of love and partnership. Rae worked as a nurse across various Pennsylvania facilities and later served as Director of Quality Assurance at Medical Components in Harleysville, PA, for 17 years. Known for her sharp wit and vibrant storytelling, she lit up every room, often compared to the character Roseanne for her humor and toughness. A proud Italian Catholic, Rae found spiritual connection alongside Bob at Pebble Hill Church in Doylestown, where they supported local community outreach.
Two decades ago, Rae bravely underwent a life-saving duodenal switch surgery. Though it extended her life, she endured lasting complications and over 30 surgeries, yet never lost her humor or strength.
Rae is preceded in death by her mother, Elizabeth DeFrancesco; brother Ralph; and Bob's parents. She is survived by her loving husband Bob; her beautiful daughter Elizabeth Naidoo; her grandchildren, whom she treasured above all, Tyler, Jordanna, Logan, and Gracie; her sister Betty Bourne; her daughter's ex-husband Trevor Naidoo; and her first husband, Lonnie Thomas, who, alongside Bob, shared a rare friendship Rae adored.
Instead of flowers, contributions may be made to a GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/8d3efade5 Honor Rachel's Memory. A celebration of life will be held in the future.
"I love you... more today than yesterday, less than tomorrow." —Bob