Edith (Ida) M. (Tisi) Rich

Grandma Ida – The Iron Horse

Edith M. (Ida) Rich, 101, of Herkimer and formerly of Little Falls, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at Valley Health Services, surrounded by her loving family. Born on January 14, 1923, in the Town of Danube, she was the daughter of the late Leonard and Josephine (Barone) Tisi and a proud graduate of St. Mary's Academy in Little Falls.

On February 23, 1946, Ida married Anthony Rich at the former St. Joseph's Church in Little Falls, enjoying a blessed union of 60 years until Tony's passing on January 11, 2006. Ida dedicated 30 years as the Office Manager for the former Little Falls Evening Times Newspaper.

Ida was deeply involved in her community and church, serving as a member of Holy Family Parish and its Rosary Society, and contributing as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and Sunday school teacher. She was also a den mother for the Boys Scouts, active in the PTA, and served as room mother for 24 years. Later in life, she volunteered at the former VanAllen Nursing home for over 30 years, was a member of the YMCA, and participated in the Silver Sneaker’s program.

Ida lived a remarkable life whose 101 years graced our lives with kindness, gentleness, and unconditional love. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and hospitality, where legendary Sunday gatherings filled with laughter and joy were cherished by all. Her green thumb nurtured a flourishing garden, symbolizing her nurturing nature, while her unwavering faith and devotion to her church inspired us all.

Ida's love extended to her eight children, 21 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and even a great-great-grandchild, each feeling cherished by her boundless affection. Despite life's challenges, her resilience and strength never faltered, teaching us the true meaning of love, family, and cherishing every moment.

Survivors include her children, Andrew Rich (Sandra), Anthony Rich (MaryAnne), Karen Ruff, Mary Beth Raymond, Kathy Hudson, and Steven Rich (Kelly), two daughters-in-law, Vera Rich and Barbara Rich, 21 grandchildren, many great grandchildren and one great great grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her son, Joseph Rich, daughter, Elena Rich; sisters, Mary Raiello, Sara Federico, Nancy Coffin, Catherine LaPorta, Rose Perkov, Philomena Coffin and Genevieve Lorenzoni; brothers, Ben Tisi and Orlando Tisi; and her son-in-laws, James Raymond and Gary Ruff. 

The family will be receiving relatives and friends on Thursday, May 30, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00 am at the Holy Family Parish, corner of John and Main Streets, Little Falls, NY.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated following the visitation at 11:00 am at the church with Reverend Brian Slezak, pastor officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Town of Herkimer, NY. Arrangements are under the caring guidance of the Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service, (next to Hannaford Markets), 527 E. Albany St. Herkimer, NY.

In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to your local Food Pantry or the Herkimer Hunger Coalition (P.O. Box 622, Herkimer, NY 13350).

As we honor Ida's extraordinary life, may her values of strength, perseverance, and love guide and inspire us. Her legacy of love will live on through all of us.

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