Estelle Richardson

Estelle Curtis Richardson of Pittsburgh, PA, formerly of Framingham, MA and Chatham, MA, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025 at the age of 97 (and a half!). She was born in Waltham, MA on September 22, 1927 to the late Mildred Childs French and George Lowell French.

Estelle was a loving mother to Gale A. Richardson (M. John Schon), a proud grandmother of Kelly L. Schon (Travis J. Kohler) and Emily M. Schon (Meg Barnes), and a sister-in-law to Cynthia French. She was also an adoring aunt to Kim Doverspike and Kristy Tiampo, and she held her “kissing cousins” close to her heart. Estelle was preceded in death by her brother, Clarence F. French.

Estelle graduated from Waltham High School in 1945 and earned her Associate’s degree from Dean Junior College in Franklin, MA in 1947. She worked at Brandeis University before moving to Framingham, where she raised her daughter. Later, Estelle relocated to Chatham, where she lived for 30 years. During her time there, she worked at CVS, eventually managing the greeting card department.

A true lover of nature, Estelle adored the marshes, ponds, and beaches of Cape Cod. She became an avid birdwatcher and found peace in the beauty of the Cape and its wildlife. Estelle enjoyed frequenting local seafood restaurants, always lamenting that Pittsburgh’s seafood couldn’t hold a candle to New England’s.

A fan of the Boston Celtics and the Red Sox, she also enjoyed attending the Chatham Anglers Cape Cod Baseball League games. Estelle could also tell you everything about NASCAR, making her a one-of-a-kind sports enthusiast. Above all, her family was her greatest love, and she adored spending time with them. Estelle also had a deep affection for her dogs, particularly her Scottish Terriers, including the late Mr. Jack, who was a true companion.

Estelle will be remembered for her warm spirit, her unwavering love for her family, and her zest for life.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to:

Animal Rescue League of Boston – Brewster shelter. Checks can be sent to 3981 Main Street (Route 6A), East Brewster, MA 02631

Bridges Hospice PPG program. https://www.bridgeshospice.org/donate Or checks can be sent to 4130 Monroeville Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146