Danielle Marrelli Richards

With broken hearts, but abundant gratitude for her beautiful life, we announce the passing of Danielle Marrelli Richards, of Pickerington, who left us far too soon on July 9, 2026, at the age of 44. Danielle was born on January 9, 1982 in Garfield Heights, raised in Bedford, all near Cleveland, a city she always carried in her heart.

Danielle radiated kindness, wit, and compassion for all whose lives she touched. Family was Danielle’s anchor, and nothing brought her greater joy than the time spent deeply connected to those she loved. She is survived by her loving husband of 11 years, Dane Elliott Richards, whose life was forever brightened by Danielle’s steadfast love and laughter. Her beloved children, Dylan Elise (Bean) and Denver Elliott (Denvy), and her faithful companion, and first real baby, Chewie, their Schnauzer.

She is survived by her parents, John (Meg) Marrelli and her mother Lori (Brian) Holbrook. Her sister Ange (John) Relic; step-sister and step-brother Lindsey Vrhovnik, Johnny (Carlee) Vrhovnik. Her parents-in-law Dave and Diane Richards; sister-in-law, Dessi Richards McNeil (Logan); and nieces Stella Ryann McNeil, Luna Lynn Ross, and Nova Taylor Ross; grandmother Anna Mae Elliott, as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. All whose support was a constant in her life, and each has shared a lifetime of stories and adventures.

Danielle was preceded in death by her grandparents, aunts, uncles and brother-in-law, Ryan Lewis McNeil. The memories and inside jokes that Danielle and Ryan shared remain an enduring part of her story.

Danielle graduated from Bedford High School in 2000, where she was a Varsity Cheerleader and National Honor Society member. She was a proud graduate of The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business. Danielle worked in the real estate industry at Quality Choice Title, as an Escrow Officer for 19 years in Central Ohio. She earned the Circle of Excellence Award in 2021 and 2022, which is a respected national award honoring the top professionals across the country.

Danielle had a way of finding joy in the ordinary moments of life that others often overlooked: from discovering the new music of a Venice Beach street musician to enjoying the energy and laughter of family and friends at gatherings. Danielle delighted in these connections and memories, making each occasion a celebration of being together.

As we remember Danielle, we hold close the memories of her vibrant spirit, her laughter echoing, her never-ending empathy, her bright smile, and her ability to bring warmth into every space she entered. Her presence lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Danielle’s passing has left us with deep sorrow and she will be missed beyond measure. She will be remembered every day in the comfort of a family embrace and the sunshine on a summer day.

Family and friends may visit on Wednesday, July 15th from 2PM until 4PM, at the Johnson-Smith Funeral Home, 207 South Main Street, Baltimore, Ohio. A celebration of life service will follow at 4PM.

The family requests that In lieu of flowers, donations to a trust fund that has been setup for Dylan and Denver’s college. Donations can be sent via VENMO to Dane_Richards74, or mailed to Dylan and Denver Richards Trust c/o Merrill Lynch, 400 East Cliff Street, Baltimore, Ohio 43105. Online condolences, comments and endearments can be made at www.funeralhome.com.

Danielle was a beacon of warmth and happiness and will be greatly missed, yet her love never forgotten.