Obituary of Constance "Connie" Richardson

Constance “Connie” Marshell (Cancaro) Richardson, age 63, of Winchester, KY, passed away peacefully at home on the evening of April 24, 2025, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. She spent her final evening surrounded by love — in the company of her devoted husband, dear friends, and the comforting flavors of her favorite hometown foods.

Born in June 1961 to Robert and Ruth Ann (Campbell) Cancaro, Connie’s early life was shaped by adventure and change, moving frequently as her father worked in horse racing (likely the beginning of her love of animals). Each new home brought new friendships, which Connie made with ease and warmth. She graduated from Norwood High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1979, and soon after, joined the United States Navy. There, she began flight school in Orlando, FL, and proudly served her country for five years in Guantanamo Bay and Alameda, CA.

While military life wasn’t her long-term calling, Connie discovered a passion for aviation. She transitioned into a career with DHL as an air traffic controller, where her sharp communication skills, creativity, and reliability made her an asset. It was there that she met a colleague she would later charm into joining her for a movie one afternoon — a seemingly casual invitation that marked the beginning of a nearly 30-year love story with her husband, John Richardson.

Together, Connie and John built a life full of laughter, travel, and unforgettable memories. From road trips across the U.S. to countless visits to Europe and relaxing cruises, their favorite escape was always Aruba, specifically the donkey rescue. They collected magnets, photos, and stories — treasures of a life well lived.

Though Connie spent much of her life in Northern Kentucky, she and John made Winchester their home in her final years. She had a gift for making others feel loved, often through acts of care: a warm meal, a freshly poured cup of coffee, or the simple joy of her radiant smile. She especially enjoyed serving homemade lasagna or spaghetti — a delicious nod to her Italian heritage. Connie was crafty! If she hadn’t had the skillset for a new creation, she would learn it. She wanted to try everything. Her craft room was filled to the brink with projects in all stages. She had jean jackets embroidered with delicate butterflies, hand painted jewelry, curtains and outfits with perfect stitching, and quilts made with love to gift for baby showers to weddings. Connie met an irreplaceable group of friends through sewing. They would enjoy retreats together, spend time crafting with one another, and share their ups and downs.

Connie had two undeniable superpowers: the ability to nap anywhere (on a plane, at the beach, or curled up at home), and an uncanny talent for spotting a Starbucks within minutes of arriving in a new city — always rewarding herself with a caramel macchiato.

She loved with her whole heart, and you could see it — especially in the round, well-fed bellies of her beloved dogs. Connie and John were never without a furry companion by their side or in their laps.

Connie’s presence was a gift to all who knew her. Her warmth, humor, and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

She is preceded by her parents; Robert and Ruth Ann (Campbell) Cancaro, her father in-law; Ted Richardson, and her mother-in-law; Deanna Leport.

Surviving her is her loving husband; John Richardson, Sisters-in-law, Kelly (George) Niceley, and Beth Richardson; her fur pups, Delilah, Bonnie, and Gigi; her neighbors, friends, and extended family.

Connie will be remembered in our hearts with the whiff of coffee beans, the taste of oregano, and the touch of a warm hug. She will be honored by her military brothers and sisters through a final salute shared by immediate family.

There will be a Celebration of Connie's Life in June at her home in Winchester. Please contact John for details.

In lieu of flowers, consider donating to a cause so dear to Connie's heart, Aruba Donkey Rescue, by clicking here.

 

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