Ellen Richards

Ellen Louise Strong Richards, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend passed away on May 15th, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived.

Ellen was born on August 15, 1943, in Hartford, Connecticut, to the late Richard and Marjorie (Heine) Strong. She was the fifth of six children and was preceded in death by her siblings: Jean Wishart, David Strong, Ruth Murphy, Shirley Anderson, and Paul Strong.

Ellen spent her early years in Connecticut before moving to Florida, where she attended Riviera Beach High School. She proudly graduated as part of the school's very first graduating class in 1961. The school later became known as Suncoast High School.

After graduation, Ellen returned to Connecticut with her family. In 1962, she met the love of her life, Ernest "Ernie" Richards. For Ellen, it was love at first sight. The two were married on February 2, 1963, beginning a beautiful marriage that lasted for more than 63 years.

Ellen lived a joyful and meaningful life devoted to her family and community. She loved dancing and singing and found great fulfillment in volunteering at local schools and with the Special Olympics. Her warmth, kindness, and generous spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Ernest J. Richards, Jr. ; her daughters, Tamara Cook (Scott), Misty Pino (Wilbert), and Gina Lorenzo (Eric Hermann); and her beloved grandchildren, Amanda Phelps (Kevin), Katlin McGregor (Josh), Cassady Cook, Kevin Magersuppe (Alex), Brianne Cook, Bayley Osteen (Sean), Matthew Basil (Ciera), and Brian Basil. She is also survived by nine great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Ellen's life was filled with love, laughter, music, and family. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Aycock-Riverside Funeral Home, 1112 Military Trl, Jupiter, Florida 33458, on June 13, 2026, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, with the service beginning at 11:30 am.