Traci L. Richards, age 47, of Rome, passed away unexpectedly, Sunday, May 7, 2017. She was born July 4, 1969, in Rome, a daughter of Charles and Donna Hanicker Richards. She graduated from Rome Free Academy and Bay Path College. Traci worked for many years as a paralegal at Disability Management Services in Springfield, MA, before returning to Rome. She attended St. Mary’s/St. Peter’s Parish. Traci is survived by her mother, Donna Richards and companion, John Paul; her loving companion, Thomas O’Dell, whom took special care of her; Tom’s family; her two daughters, McKenzie and Madison Copland, and their father, Scott Copland; aunts and an uncle, JoAnn Richards, and Elizabeth and Gene Soltero; cousins, Scott Richards, Kevin and Gayla Richards, and Karen Soltero; many special friends; and her beloved canine, Jenga. She was predeceased by her father, Charles “Chuck” Richards; a sister, Debbie Lenane; grandparents, Helen and Charles Hanicker, and Lucille and Homer Richards; an uncle, Jack Richards; and a cousin, Wendy Soltero. A Mass of Christian Burial, celebrated by Rev. Philip A. Hearn, will be held Saturday at 12 Noon, at St. Peter’s Church. Relatives and friends may call at St. Peter’s Church, Saturday from 11AM to 12 Noon, prior to the funeral mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mission of the Christ Child at St. Peter’s Church or a charity of one’s choice.