Aurelia Jane Rich

Aurelia Jane Rich passed away at the young age of 20 on April 19, 2026. Aurelia was born in Tampa, Florida on December 5, 2005. She received her early education at St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School and Berkley Preparatory middle school. She graduated from Academy of the Holy Names High School before attending Auburn University.

Aurelia was lovingly named after her Romanian maternal great grandmother, carrying forward a cherished family legacy. She is survived by her parents Stephanie and Russell Rich and her siblings Austin and Charlotte as well as extended family including maternal grandparents, Molly and James Resch, aunts and uncles Jill (Gary) Buhler, Brad (Kristi) Resch and cousins Austin (Gillian), Benjamin, Cameron, Penelope, Nolan and Courtney, numerous second cousins, aunts and uncles and paternal aunt Margarita Birgen and cousin Ajda. Aurelia loved her family and siblings deeply.

Though her time on this earth was far too short, the depth of her spirit and the love she gave to others will be felt for a lifetime.

From a young age, Aurelia expressed herself in the arts. She played and even composed music on the piano, which reflected her thoughtful soul. She had an ear for music, finding joy across a wide range of genres and often proudly sharing her carefully curated playlists. A gifted writer, Aurelia wrote with a deep and timeless understanding of history and human interaction. With a refined eye for color, style and form, Aurelia was an avid photographer and collector of images, impressing others with her stunning visual collages.

Aurelia was known for her gentle humor and sharp wit. She was a loyal and deeply caring friend, someone who listened without judgment and connected easily with others. Her humility and frugality were reflections of her values - she cared far more about people, experiences, and authenticity than material things.

A heartfelt animal lover, Aurelia enjoyed horseback riding and caring for horses, finding both purpose and peace in their intimate presence. She fostered cats and dogs and would have adopted every one of them if she could. Her compassion knew no limits, and she loved with her whole heart—sometimes empathic to a fault.

Aurelia had a special place in her heart for children and an innate ability to connect with them, even when language was a barrier. Through patience, warmth, and genuine kindness, she built trust and joy wherever she went. Camp Merrie-Woode was a defining part of Aurelia’s life. She attended summer camp from the age of six, growing up within a community she dearly loved, creating lasting friendships. Over the years, she gave back both as a junior and senior counselor, serving as a mentor and role model to countless campers who felt seen, safe, and valued because of her.

Aurelia will be remembered for her creativity, kindness, humor, and extraordinary ability to make others feel understood. She leaves behind a community of friends, campers, children, animals, and loved ones who are forever changed by her presence and who will carry her spirit forward through music, words, and acts of compassion.

Aurelia will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered.

A funeral Mass will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church on May 4th in Tampa. Friends are welcome to pay their respects at 9:30am in the Narthex with a Mass at 10:00am. The family will have a private burial following Mass. There will be a reception at 1:00 pm.

The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to:

New Life Village: Provides a residential community for families seeking permanency for children impacted by foster care https://newlifevillage.org/give/

Emerald M Therapeutic Riding Center: Provides an equine therapeutic environment to meet the needs of children with a variety of challenges https://emeraldmtherapeuticridingcenter.org/