Desirei Richards Millea, heart of the family

Desirei Anne Richards Millea of Lewes passed away from the impact of ovarian cancer Monday, July 15, 2024. She was born July 27, 1957, in Augsburg, Germany, to the late Robert and Phyliss Richards. She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Tom Millea. Desirei is also survived by her sisters, Phyliss Karamarkovich and Roberta Richards. She was beloved by her three nieces, five nephews, and her pup, Sugar. 

Desirei focused on turning houses into homes for her and Tom as she supported him in moves from Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Carolina, Maryland, and Delaware. She loved to bake and made the best pumpkin and banana bread, which she gifted to many.

Desirei often marveled at her happiness and experiences while camping. She especially loved the Outer Banks but was happy anywhere their Airstream took them. She spent many hours dreaming of their next camping adventure and had planned on boondocking across the United States with Tom and Sugar.

Desirei was the heart of the family and tied a close, tight ribbon of love around the family by organizing holidays, remembering and recognizing special events, and ensuring everyone knew they were loved.

Desirei’s character and temperament could be best seen with her diagnosis of cancer in May 2022. She never felt sorry for herself. Desirei kept her diagnosis from many as she never wanted others to feel sympathy, sorrow, or concern for her.  Up until the very end, she had a smile on her face and continued to thank the many medical professionals, family, and friends who cared for her. She refused to let cancer rob the strong, tireless, and fierce woman that she was.

Desirei will be sorely missed; she will continue to hold a special place in our hearts as an extraordinarily loving wife, sister, aunt, and friend.

The family requests that you take your dog on a nice walk and have a great meal with loved ones.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Monday, July 22, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 16961 Kings Hwy., Lewes, where friends may visit beginning at 2 p.m.

Sign Desirei's Life Memorial webpage at www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.