Zaundra Lea Rickson

Zaundra, aka Mana, was an accomplished seamstress. She made wedding dresses for friends and family, bridesmaids dresses, prom dresses, clothes for her children and grandchildren. When she discovered her love of quilting clothes making got pushed to the side, though she would always lend a hand with alterations or hemming. Everyone in the immediate and extended family as well as numerous friends were thrilled to receive a 'Mana' quilt.

Following a brain stem stroke in 2023 Zaundra found the complicated quilt patterns she used to be able to do were a bit more daunting. She still utilized her talents making simple lap quilts, bringing at least 2 with her to every oncology appt, to donate to the patients.

Zaundra was also an avid knitter and would often not leave home without an unfinished project, or two. Just like the quilts, grandchildren were always proud of their 'Mana' sweaters. Her stroke also limited her ability to read and comprehend the complex patterns for sweaters and such so she used those fragile arthritic fingers to knit hats for the Oncology patients. Often bringing 6 or 7 hats to an appointment.

Zaundra was an entrepreneur at heart. Throughout her life she started many little cottage businesses utilizing her sewing and knitting skills. She found her niche when she started a mailing list for selling antique and vintage dolls. She ran a successful eBay and mailing business for the dolls for many years.

Zaundra loved to sing and was part of many church choirs over the years. She was an Alto, had a beautiful voice and could always harmonize. There is a picture of her, in costume, in the "Images of America: Canterbury the first 300 years" book, singing away with the choir at Westminster Church.

Zaundra met the love of her life, Charles 'Bill' Rickson, aka Pata, when she was just 7 years old. They married on April 23, 1960. Their marriage produced 5 children, 26 grandchildren and 41 great grandchildren. She was so proud to have such a large family. Zaundra was an only child and would often chuckle and say 'because of me you all are here'.

Zaundra is predeceased by her loving husband of 55 years and her parents.

She is survived by her children Jennifer Salveggio (Steve), Lisa Keil, Stephanie Thompson (Steve), Tricia Abney (Joshua) and Jason Rickson (Nancy), her 26 grandchildren and 41 great grandchildren.

She will be sorely missed yet we rejoice with her reuniting with her beloved 'dear' and her Lord and Savior.

Services TBD