Anna "Mae" Mae Rich, R.N., 89, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, at Independence Health Frick Hospital, with her family by her side. She was a cherished wife, devoted mother, grandmother, and respected nurse. Mae was born in Scottdale on Jan. 10, 1936, the daughter of the late Jacob and Ann Yelenosky Zozula. Mae's life was characterized by her loving nature, gentle spirit, and unwavering faith. Mae was a longtime and faithful member of the Partner Parish of St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, Scottdale. Mae's early years were spent in the close-knit community of Scottdale, where she formed lifelong friendships and excelled in her studies. A proud graduate of Scottdale High School's Class of 1953, she carried the lessons of her youth throughout her life. Mae continued her education at St. Francis Nursing School, graduating in 1956, and embarked on a distinguished career as an operating room nurse at Connellsville Hospital. Her dedication to her profession was evident in her 36 years of service, during which she touched the lives of countless individuals with her care and expertise. Mae's heart was always fullest when surrounded by her beloved family. She was the loving wife and high school sweetheart of Ralph M. Rich Jr., retired Chief of Police of Scottdale, with whom she shared 68 years of marriage. Together, they built a life founded on love, mutual respect, and shared values. Mae was a nurturing mother to her children, Lisa Ann Rich and husband, Ron Stefano of Crownsville, MD; Mark D. Rich and wife Nancy of Virginia Beach, VA; and Timothy M. Rich and wife, Tonya of Morgantown, WV. She took immense joy in her role as a grandmother to John Stefano, Anna Maria Stefano, Sarah Rich, Bryan Rich, Jacqueline Rich, and Nicolette and her husband, Max Farmerie. Each of her grandchildren will carry the legacy of her kindness and strength. The family would also like to thank her very special friends, Karen Dalicandro, Nancy Garsteck, and Jamie and Larry Gross, for all their love and support throughout the years. Mae's commitment to her faith was unwavering, and she was an active member of the St. John Byzantine Catholic Church Altar Society. Her faith-filled life was a testament to her belief in compassion and service to others. She was a beacon of light for her family, guiding them with her wisdom and unwavering support. In addition to her parents, Mae was preceded in death by her siblings, John Zozula, William Zozula, Helen Kane, Margaret Moody, Theodore Zozula, and Jack Zozula. Those who knew Mae were blessed by her presence. She was the epitome of a gentle soul, whose loving nature was the cornerstone of her existence. Her faith guided her through life's challenges, and she was a source of comfort and inspiration to all. Mae's family will greet friends from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, at FRANK KAPR FUNERAL HOME INC., 417 Pittsburgh St., Scottdale, PA 15683. Parting prayers will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 19, 2025, in the funeral home, with her funeral Mass to follow in the partner parish of St. John the Baptist R.C. Church, with Fr. Julius Capongpon as celebrant and Fr. Tyler Wisniewski as concelebrant. Committal services and interment will follow in St. John Parish Cemetery. In addition to flowers, donations can be made to Mercy Ships, one of her favorite organizations, at
https://partner.mercyships.org. To view the online obituary, send online condolences, send flowers, or obtain directions, please visit
www.kapr.com.
Published by The Valley News Dispatch on Jul. 16, 2025.