Denise Lynn Wieliczka Richards

7/13/26

Denise Lynn Wieliczka Richards, 68, entered peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on July 13, 2026, after courageously battling Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). While the disease gradually weakened her body, it never diminished her unwavering faith, her love for her family, or the joy and kindness she shared with everyone blessed to know her. Born on June 29, 1958, in Manchester, Connecticut, Denise was the beloved daughter of Janet Wieliczka and the late William Wieliczka.

Denise is survived by her devoted husband and best friend of 36 years, Tyde Richards; her beloved daughter, Sarah Richards Rothluebber, and her husband Craig; her stepson, Aaron Richards, and his wife Kelly; her cherished granddaughters, Lily and Mia Richards; her sister Sharon McLaughlin, her sister Tamara Neff and her husband William; her brother and sister in law Dirk and Lori Richards; her nieces and their children Heidi and husband Mike, and Baily and her husband Cory; Rachel

Gaetani and her husband Joe, and nephew Carl and his wife Christine she was proceeded by her brother William Wieliczka Jr.

On May 22, 1987, Denise accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Two days later, her husband gave her a Bible, beginning a lifelong walk of faith that became the foundation of everything she did. Her love for Christ shaped the way she loved her family, served others, and approached every season of life with grace, humility, and hope.

One of Denise's greatest passions was Christian education. When their daughter Sarah was only three years old, Denise became convinced that Sarah should attend Pioneer Valley

Christian Academy. Although Tyde initially questioned whether a Christian school could provide the education he wanted for their daughter, Denise never wavered. She encouraged him to visit the school, and after doing so he quickly realized she had been right all along, he was all in and eventually became the school’s Chairman of the Board. It became one of many times in their marriage that Denise's wisdom gently proved itself to be right.

After Sarah graduated, Denise joined Pioneer Valley Christian Academy as Director of Admissions, a position she dearly loved until her retirement in 2021. She believed deeply in Christian education and cared sincerely for every child and every family she met. Parents often remember Denise arriving before sunrise to meet them for school tours before they headed to work. She never viewed families as enrollment numbers; she saw each child as someone precious and deserving of love, encouragement, and a Christ-centered education.

She was an exceptional wife, a loving mother, and a devoted grandmother. Whether encouraging Aaron and Sarah, spending time with Lily and Mia, or simply enjoying an ordinary evening with Tyde, Denise found happiness in the everyday moments that became life's greatest treasures.

Friends also knew Denise's competitive spirit. She loved games, especially backgammon, and she was extraordinarily difficult to beat. Even after becoming ill, she delighted in challenging visiting nurses to a game, often defeating them with a smile and a little good-natured humor. Her determination, sharp mind, and joyful spirit remained with her throughout her illness.

Perhaps Denise's greatest gift was her ability to see the good in people. She looked beyond faults and chose to focus on what was honorable, kind, and redeeming. She naturally offered encouragement instead of criticism, grace instead of judgment, and forgiveness instead of resentment. Those qualities quietly shaped the lives of countless people who may never fully realize the impact she had on them.

Although her family grieves her passing, they rejoice in the assurance that Denise is now completely healed and forever in the presence of the Savior she faithfully loved and served. Her faith has become sight, her suffering has ended, and she has received the eternal reward promised to those who trust in Christ.

Funeral services will be held at Cornerstone Baptist Church, 21 State Street Skaneateles Thursday, July 16, 2026, calling hours at 8:30 AM, funeral Service at 10:00 followed by a family grave side service at Lakeview Cemetery.

A Massachusetts Memorial Service will be held Saturday, July 18, 2026, 9:30 AM at the First Baptist Church, 50 Parker Street, East Longmeadow MA 01028, everyone is welcomed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Denise's memory to:

Pioneer Valley Christian Academy 965 Plumtree Road Springfield, MA 01119

The family finds comfort in the words of Matthew 25:23: "Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord."

To send condolences, visit: robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.