Arionna Nicole Richard

UTICA - Arionna Nicole Richard, at the precious age of 3, became an Angel when she passed away unexpectedly on Friday, November 9, 2018 at Upstate Medical University Hospital with her loving family by her side. Arionna was born at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse on January 23, 2015, the daughter of Brandon Richard and Dasha Hendricks. Arionna was a feisty fighter when she came into this world, and she let everyone know about it. She was born with a congenital heart condition and underwent surgery when she was 10 months old. She spent time in several hospitals and was a special patient and friend to the many doctors and nurses. Her parents were with her each day, and nobody could get enough of her! She was walking, talking up a storm, playing with blocks, and other things that caught her curiosity. She loved oatmeal, chips, honey buns, McDonald’s Chicken McNuggets with milk and fries. She liked to dress up nicely, have her hair done in pigtails, and off she went. She preferred Peppa Pig on Nickelodeon, and no scary movies for her. She kept occupied when she played on her tablet, and anyone who came over to visit was told to give her their phone for her playtime and entertainment, and everyone gave it up with no questions asked. Arionna always had her eyes on her daddy, and her mom was her go-to best friend. She and her sister’s had a tight bond, and she was always looking for them and asking where they were at! Her grandparents thought she was adorable and she always wanted to be picked up and cuddled. They would raise their arms, and in she went. Arionna came from the Lord, opened her eyes, and appreciated life. She showed us that suffering from an affliction did not stop her from enjoying her days and love for her family. She taught by her actions that there were no excuses, and that she would never give up. Her time here was precious, and she will not be forgotten. Music made her dance, and the Ring Song by Cardi B was her favorite. Even now, you could almost hear her say, “Turn up the music, Daddy!” She blessed this family and those she touched, …she left an impression every step of the way. Arionna is dancing with angels today. Arionna is survived by her parents, Brandon and Dasha; her siblings, Amarianie, and Janiah; maternal grandparents, Robin and Nick Jones-Massina; her paternal grandparents, her “Nini” Nicole and grandpa Jody Dorsey; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and her godmother Niki Jones-Massina. She was predeceased by her great-grandparents, Elma and Walter House. The family extends their gratitude to her cardiologist, Dr. Frank Smith, the staff at Upstate Medical University who were the most wonderful and amazing team of caretakers; and the amazing group of family, friends, and community who have been so loving and supportive. Visitation will be held Monday from 4:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Arionna’s Celebration of Life will commence on Monday evening at 6:00 immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Brother Courtney Muhammad officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Arionna Nicole Richard

January 23, 2015 - November 9, 2018