Chanel Maria Ward-Richardson, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and professional, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2024, at the age of 55, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on February 23, 1969, to Yvette Ward and Lamont Ricketts. Chanel married the love of her life Joseph Richardson, Sr. on July 29, 1994 and from that union came Gabrielle, Moriah, and Joseph.

Chanel's journey of excellence began at Engineering & Science High School in Philadelphia, where she graduated in 1987. She went on to earn her degree from Northeastern University, where she also pledged Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., forming bonds of sisterhood that would last a lifetime.

Her professional career was marked by significant contributions to education and technology. Chanel worked at Lesley College and Microsoft before finding her home at Drexel University in the Academic Information & Systems department for over twenty years. She began as a Systems Analyst for Financial Aid and was promoted to Student Systems Analyst Manager, leading her team in supporting the software applications used across the student lifecycle. Chanel excelled in this position, utilizing her strong analytical skills to implement new technology, improve the efficiency of processes and maximize the use of applications. She coupled this with demonstrated expertise in mentoring her team, supporting colleagues and building lasting friendships.

Chanel was not only accomplished in her professional life but was also a woman of diverse interests and passions. She was an avid reader, sharing her love for Nebula Award-winning books with her children. Family television nights often featured spirited discussions about the latest episodes of Dr. Who. Her love for music, particularly her adoration for Prince, was well-known among friends and family.

Those who knew Chanel will remember her for her warmth, her wisdom, and her ability to light up any room with her presence. Her legacy of love, learning, and laughter will continue to inspire all whose lives she touched. Chanel lived a life characterized by these traits, and an infectious smile that touched all who knew her. She is survived by her devoted husband, Joseph Richardson, Sr., and their cherished children: Gabrielle, Moriah, and Joseph, Jr. "JJ". She also leaves behind her loving mother Yvette; treasured Mother-in-Law Catherine; Father-in-Law Marius; her beloved Uncle Bobby (Elle); cherished cousins Marlo (Leslie, III) and Tyra (Jamal); siblings Marty, Lilliana, LaVonna, Lamar, Osiris, Emmanuel, Rosetta, Sheeba, Ma'at, Shaniyah, Malaysia, Nakira, and LaMont; sister-in-law Leicha (Chance and Chase); nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and sorority sisters. She is predeceased by her father Lamont Ricketts, grandfathers Wendell Ward & Lawrence Ricketts; and grandmothers Aquila Ward & Anna Ricketts.

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