Riva Amendola Richards

Riva Ann Amendola Richards, 52, of Boynton Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025. Riva was the beloved daughter of Lois and Rick Amendola. She was born in Poughkeepsie, New York, and raised just outside of Asheville, North Carolina.

From an early age, Riva excelled at everything she set her mind to. Her achievements began early—she skipped fourth grade due to her exceptional reading comprehension and went on to graduate at the top of her high school class. Afterward, she attended Florida State University, earning her degree in Marketing. Soon after college, she moved to Orlando, where she began her career as an event planner for Marriott. Riva had a discerning eye for detail and a natural passion for bringing people’s ideas to life. Later, she transitioned into real estate, where she was an award-winning agent. Ambitious and driven, Riva approached every goal with energy and determination.

Riva was a friend to everyone she met. Known for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering kindness, she was the person you could always count on. No favor was ever too big—if Riva knew something would make your day easier or brighter, she would go above and beyond to make it happen.

In her free time, Riva gave back to her community through volunteer work at the Women’s Shelter and the Peggy Adams Animal Shelter. She often brought home kittens to foster until they found loving homes—caring for them as though they were her own.

Her interests evolved over the years, but in recent times, she had become a devoted pickleball and Mahjong enthusiast. Her perfect day often included a morning round of golf with friends, an afternoon of Mahjong or pickleball, and an early dinner with her partner, Tom. She loved games of strategy—especially Scrabble—and relished the challenge they provided. She was never a sore loser, though few could beat her.

Riva was a devoted mother to her two children, Ava and Tate Richards, whom she loved beyond measure. She instilled in them a strong work ethic, a love of learning, and an understanding of perseverance. Through every phase of their lives, she guided them with encouragement, perspective, and unconditional support.

Riva is survived by her children, Ava and Tate Richards; her father and stepmother, Rick and Analisa Amendola; and her partner, Tom Zola.

A funeral service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Delray on Friday, November 14th at 1pm.

In lieu of sending flowers, the family would prefer donations be made to Peggy Adams Animal Rescue.