Laurel M. Riding's Obituary
Laurel M. Riding, 66, of Vernon, CT passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at home, after a 14 year battle with lung cancer. She was born in Hartford, CT, daughter of the late Edward and Sarah (Elia) Riding. She was a loving mother, grandmother, daughter and sister. Laurel was a source of light and sarcasm for her friends and family. Although she struggled with many medical problems, she'd always respond with, “I'm doing SPARKLING” when asked about her well being. She was very straight forward, didn't sugar coat anything and often laughed about her “sailor's mouth.” Laurel truly was one of a kind. She was an avid swimmer, and loved going to Misquamicut beach to soak up the sun before jumping in the ocean. She was a huge animal lover. She cherished all kinds of animals, but especially her pets. Laurel became a grandmother this year and was ecstatic to meet her granddaughter Amelia. She is preceded in death by her beloved sister Sharon Riding. Laurel is survived by her daughter, Darcey (Riding) Struchen, husband Kyle and granddaughter Amelia; sister, Debra Riding; and nephew, Bryan Riding. A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with a celebration of life service beginning at 6:00 PM at Introvigne Funeral Home, Inc., 51 East Main St., Stafford Springs, CT. Burial in Rose Hill Memorial Park, Rocky Hill, CT will be private. Her strength, love, and courage will always be remembered, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. Mom, I will always love you.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the ASPCA, PO Box 96929, Washington, DC 20090-6929, or American Cancer Society, PO Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. To leave a message of sympathy for her family, or for directions, please visit: www.introvignefuneralhome.com
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