Close Knit Community Comes Together Following Sudden Death of Odenton Woman, 23

A close-knit community has united following the sudden death of Mariah Melendez-Richardson, a 23, year old Odenton woman.  

According to a GoFundMe page created by Melendez-Richardson's mother Amanda, Mariah was a daughter, a beloved sister and a devoted friend to all those who loved her.  "She has touched so many lives and at this time we are asking for donations to cover this tragically unexpected event," Ms. Richardson wrote. 

The 2018 Arundel High School graduate passed away on June 29, 2023, an online obituary states. The obituary said her passion for softball started at the young age of 8 when she joined her first team through the Harundale Softball League. A strong athlete, Mariah played all through high school.  "In her professional field she loved being a PT/clinical tech. She truly enjoyed her elderly patients and they all loved her just as much. Mariah recently started working at a daycare center, which was surprising because that was definitely out of her realm, but she loved working with those kids. "

There will be a Celebration of Life service at Arundel High School Softball field on July 23, 2023 at 11:00 AM.  Following the service, there will be a softball game held in Mariah's honor.