Deborah Puanani Richards

April 23, 1950 – February 2, 2026

Deborah Puanani Tollefsen Richards, beloved sister, mother, aunty, cousin, friend, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, at The Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, at the age of 75.

Deborah was born on April 23, 1950, in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. She lived a life enriched by faith, family, and service. A retired school Librarian, Deborah had a lifelong love of learning and research, with a special devotion to genealogy and family history. She found great joy in preserving family stories and helping others understand their roots.

Deborah treasured time spent with her family, and was known for her thoughtful spirit, and her love of meaningful conversation and relationships. Her life reflected her testimony of Jesus Christ and her deep belief in the eternal nature of families.

She is survived by her sisters, Saralyn Chow and Donna (John) Awana; children, son Layne (Kahi) Richards and daughter Cherise Richards; and her grandchildren, grandson Hāweo and granddaughter Hālena; and grand pup Sweden. She is also survived by 7 nephews and 1 niece; 4 grand nieces and 2 grand nephews; extended family, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Services will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at Hawaiian Memorial Park Cemetery and Funeral Services, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to join the family for a luncheon following the services at the Lanai.

Through our faith in Jesus Christ, we find comfort in the promise of eternal families. Deborah’s love and legacy will continue through generations.