Susan Ellen Richardson

1943 - 2024

Niantic - Susan Ellen Richardson (Dec. 23, 1943 - Nov. 28, 2024) It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter and friend, Susan Ellen Richardson. Susan Richardson passed away Nov. 28, 2024, surrounded by her family after her four-year courageous battle with cancer. She fought with unbelievable strength until the very end, using every bit of energy to cherish the last moments with her family and friends. Susan was a beacon of love, generosity and faith, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and warmth that touched all who knew her.

Susan was born in New London to the late Biagio and Viola Bonanno. She had four siblings. Susan shared a special bond with her older sister, Paula, who was not only her sibling but also her best friend. Paula was a constant source of love, support and guidance in Susan's life. Susan graduated from Waterford High at the age of 18, also the age Susan met the love of her life, Lawrence Richardson. A Coca-Cola dance party at Ocean Beach was the start of their long road of love. They married Dec. 28, 1963.

Their love story spanned over six decades, a testament to the bond they shared. Throughout her four-year battle with cancer, Susan was blessed with the unwavering care and devotion of her husband, Larry. They would have celebrated 61 years of marriage next month. As the heart of her family, she raised four daughters, who were the light of her life. She has nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild and took great pride in watching them grow. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter and a special place of belonging. Susan loved hosting her family and cooking homemade Italian recipes that were passed down from generations from her ancestors.

Susan's deep faith was central to her life. She was a Eucharistic minister and actively involved in her church, where she found solace, community and purpose. Her commitment to helping others extended to her work in various charitable organizations such as Care and Share, where she selflessly gave her time and energy to make the world a better place.

In addition to her family and faith, Susan had a zest for life. She began her career at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital where she worked for 32 years. She loved her job and her colleges. Susan was known for her impeccable fashion, caring nature and annual extravagant Halloween costumes. Susan was always into physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle where she became an aerobics instructor for years teaching classes.

Susan and Larry enjoyed the company of those she loved; and every journey was an opportunity for her to create memories and share in the joy of life's adventures. Susan and Larry had a home in Vermont where they loved to go snowmobiling and hosting friends. They also had a love for the ocean and enjoyed many trips on their boat with family and friends. Later in life, they enjoyed spending winters in Florida in their new-found home. It was in Florida where Susan started her mission of Woman of Grace. Susan loved helping others and this program was very gratifying to her.

Susan was also blessed with the unwavering friendship of Maryann Clark, her lifelong and steadfast supporter. During Susan's battle with cancer, Maryann selflessly devoted much of her time to ensuring Susan's comfort and well-being. Maryann's care and loyalty were a true testament to the power of friendship. Her unwavering dedication will always be remembered with gratitude by Susan's family.

A woman of boundless compassion and energy, "Noni" adored being a mother, aunt and grandmother. She found immense happiness in supporting her grandchildren at their events, cheering them on from the sidelines and celebrating their achievements. She was the heart of her family, creating traditions and moments that will be treasured for generations.

Susan is survived by her loving husband Lawrence Richardson; her daughters, Felicia Waites (Ken), Renee Esposito (James), Jennifer Zingus (Chris) and Susan Corr (James); grandchildren: Alex, Cody, Brooke and Olivia Waites, Jack Syragakis, and Logan, Bianca, Christopher and Carly Zingus; and great-granddaughter Clemintine; her loving sister Paula Jessuck (Tony); and many loving nieces and nephews. Susan was predeceased by her brothers, Victor Bartolucci and Thomas Bonanno; and sister Linda Boushell.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4, at the Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street, Niantic. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:30 p.m. at St. Agnes Church, Haigh Avenue, Niantic. Interment will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Jefferson Avenue, New London. Online condolences may be shared at http://www.neilanfuneralhome.com" target="_new" rel="nofollow">www.neilanfuneralhome.com

For donations, please consider, Care & Share of East Lyme, Inc. PO Box 314. Niantic, CT 06357 - http://www.careandshareofel.org/monetary-donations.html