Loree June Richard

She was deeply adored, and we will miss her every day of our lives. We take comfort in knowing she is finally at peace, no longer afflicted by the illnesses that ailed her, and reunited with her beloved family members and pets who passed before her.

Loree is survived by her daughters, Allison Schwartz, Kimberly Richard, and Samantha Richard; her life partner, Anthony Simoes; her sister, Helen Manuel; and Christopher Richard. She is lovingly remembered by her cherished friends and extended family.

Loree graduated from Rollins College as an English major and spent most of her life as a college English instructor at Patrick Air Force Base (now Patrick Space Force Base) and Brevard Community College (now Eastern Florida State College). Teaching was more than a career to her — it was a calling. She believed deeply in the power of language and the importance of helping others find their voice. She encouraged her students not only to become stronger writers, but stronger thinkers, challenging them to question, reflect, and grow. Her classroom was a place of warmth, curiosity, and lively discussion, where students felt supported and inspired. She truly loved teaching and had an unwavering passion for writing, a passion she generously shared with everyone fortunate enough to learn from her.

Beyond her academic and professional accomplishments, of which there were many, Loree’s greatest impact was the way she enriched the lives of everyone around her. Whether a student, a friend, or someone in need of a listening ear, she had a remarkable way of making people feel understood and supported. She touched countless lives and left a lasting impression with her contagious laugh, beautiful singing voice, witty humor, adventurous spirit, and endless capacity for love. She was the kind of person who would knock on wood without hesitation, howl playfully at a full moon, befriend a total stranger, and remain completely and unshakably optimistic. We are proud to say she instilled these traits in all of us, and we intend to carry her legacy forward.

Our family will hold a celebration of life for Loree on March 27, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Life Event Center at Florida Memorial. Friends and loved ones are invited to join us in honoring and celebrating her life. In keeping with Loree’s generous spirit, the family welcomes flowers or memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her honor.