Rachel Jean Richardson, age 79, passed away peacefully in Mancos, CO surrounded with love on May 17, 2026. Born on March 12, 1947, Rachel lived a life marked by resilience, creativity, adventure, and deep love for the people and world around her.

Rachel grew up in Vermont, surrounded by the beauty of nature and horses, which sparked a lifelong love for both. She felt most at peace outdoors, whether traveling, taking photographs, or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of nature. She carried an adventurous spirit throughout her life and was always drawn to the wonder and freedom found beyond the familiar.

In her younger years, Rachel often traveled to Colorado and quickly fell in love with its mountains, open skies, and natural beauty. That love, combined with her desire to be closer to family, eventually led her to make Colorado her home, where she remained for the rest of her life.

Much of Rachel’s life was spent working in hospitality and healthcare, where she dedicated herself to caring for and pouring into the lives of others and making lasting relationships that she would carry with her throughout her life.

She was also a gifted artist whose creativity reflected the depth and emotion with which she experienced life. Through her art, photography, and love of travel, she sought beauty, meaning, and connection wherever she went.

Rachel had a curious mind and a deep appreciation for history and humanity. She loved reading biographies and learning about the lives of those who made an impact on the country and the world around them. She valued stories of perseverance, purpose, and the human spirit, qualities she herself continually sought throughout her life.

Rachel fell in love with sports at a young age while attending games with her parents and sister, Shirley. What began as cherished family outings quickly grew into a lifelong passion. Through the years, she became a devoted fan who rarely missed an opportunity to follow her favorite teams, celebrate victories, and share in the excitement of the game. Sports became more than a hobby—they created a special bond within her family, providing countless memories, traditions, conversations, and moments of connection that she treasured throughout her life.

Rachel was not always easy to understand or get along with, but she loved deeply and sincerely. Like all of us, she carried regrets from earlier chapters of her life, yet she remained determined to grow, heal, and rebuild broken relationships. Her later years reflected a desire for reconciliation, grace, and making the best of the time she had been given. Rachel had a caring heart that touched many lives. She will be remembered for the warmth she shared, the comfort she offered to others, and the lasting impact she made on those blessed to know her.

She will be lovingly remembered by her sister, Shirley Smith and her husband Mike; her son, Jed Trefren and his wife Amy; her cherished grandchildren, Kayla, Krista, Jake, and Grace; many cousins and relatives who held her close in their hearts; and the dear friends who came to love her like family.

Her love for those close to her remained deeply rooted in her heart, and the memories she leaves behind will continue to live on through all who knew and loved her.

Rachel’s life was one of complexity, strength, creativity, and compassion. She leaves behind a legacy not of perfection, but of perseverance, love, and the courage to keep trying. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Rachel was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Charlotte Richardson and her feline best friend Cody.

A celebration of Rachel’s life will be held at a later date. May she now find the peace, beauty, and freedom she so often sought in this life