Elissa V. Rich
On September 8, 2021, Elissa Vaughn Rich (nee’ Garner) joined our Lord after a long and beautiful life. Elissa was a loving mom, daughter, sister, aunt, and cousin, beloved by family and friends. A wonderful cook, mom, and avid gardener she brightened up countless lives with her fun personality and quirky sense of humor. A 1955 graduate of Penn State, Elissa served as President of both her high school class at The Stevens School and later of her college sorority, Delta Zeta. Self-deprecating and humble, she loved to make new friends throughout her life, and held them dearly, from the people she met every day at local shops, to long-time pals from college and in her neighborhood. She dearly loved her late husband Don and had a beautiful marriage with him until he passed in 1993. They were best friends as well as husband and wife, and they set the example of a genuinely happy marriage for their family. After Don passed, Elissa spent the rest of her life honoring his memory and sharing the wonderful artwork he had created with visitors to her home. Elissa is deeply missed by her daughter, Elissa, and granddaughters Katie and Megan, and by “Vaughn,” their little friendly cat. In lieu of flowers, the family would be grateful if donations were made in her memory to the Montgomery County SPCA, or, to an animal rescue organization of your choice. An Episcopal Funeral Mass will be held at her church, The Church of the Good Samaritan (Paoli, PA) on Saturday, October 16, 2021, at 10:30 AM. Various refreshments will be provided afterward at the church. Interment will be private at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, Whitemarsh, PA.
I was shocked when I heard the news of Elissa’s passing. Even though she was getting older she never acted like she was getting older. Always cracking jokes or telling funny stories about her experiences. She had the unique ability to find humor in many situations and express it so that others could enjoy the moment as well.
I will miss her and our phone conversations where I end up laughing to tears.
Elissa was one in a million. She had that unique ability to make anyone feel like they had known her for years and a sense of self that was both humble but proud. Elissa was the1st person I hired when I began my company and without her I doubt if we would have lasted a year. She always saw the good in a situation and gave heartfelt advice even if you did not asked for it. Her sense of humor was wonderful and story telling extraordinary. She will be missed by all who knew her, but at last she is reunited with her beloved Don. God Bless and R.I.P.
Dear Debbie: Thank you for your sweet remembrance of my mom and “Granny” to my daughters. Your comments captured my mom very well.
Blessings,
The Outtrim Family
Dear Paul Ferguson: Thank you for your wonderful and kind comments about mom. After she passed I went through her little purse-sized phone books and called as many of her friends and remote relatives as I could and though I found your name, the phone number she listed was incorrect when I called it. I am so glad you learned of her passing; she thought the world of you. You are welcome to reach me via Craft of Erdenheim if you wish. I’d love to say “hello.” Best, Elissa Rich Outtrim