Rachel Mae Lichi

CUYAHOGA FALLS - Rachel Mae Lichi, 94, was called to her eternal home on May 23, 2023. She was born in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, where she lived most of her long life. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Henry Clay and Lula Tressel Clay; her son, Kenneth Samuel Lichi, and her husband of 60 years, Samuel Francis Lichi. She is survived by her children, Jacquelyn Stager (Robert) of Tallmadge, Donald Lichi (Marcia) of Munroe Falls, Barbara Jochum (Frank) of Uniontown, Robert Lichi (Julia Lynn) of Columbus, Marcella Louke (Rodney) of Dayton, and Cynthia Lichi of Akron; 12 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren, and special friend, Connie Shaffer, of Akron.

Rachel grew up during the The Great Depression and life was not always easy for her family. For a time, they lived on her grandparents’ farm in Columbiana County. For Rachel, this meant fun, carefree days of running free in the orchard and barns with her cousins. Her father died when she was only eight years old. Being the oldest of four, Rachel had to grow up quickly to help her mother. Those hard times served to develop her strength and independent spirit for which she became well known all her life.

Rachel graduated from Cuyahoga Falls High School in 1947, and married Sam in November of that year. She devoted her life to homemaking and raising her children, and to being the neighborhood go-to mom, neighbor, and friend. House keys were not necessary, because her doors were always open, and anyone was welcome at the dinner table. Her life motto was truly “the more the merrier.” Rachel and Sam together spent many years serving in various ministries at their church, The Lighthouse, (formerly Falls First Assembly of God), where last year Rachel was honored at the church’s 100th Anniversary. She was also a former board member and served in various children’s ministries including Sunday School and Vacation Bible School.

In her later years, Rachel became “grandma extraordinaire,” pursuing and maintaining close relationships with her beloved grandchildren, joining in on their activities when she could. She eventually became affectionately known as “GG” to her great grandchildren, who adored her. “Grandchildren are the crown of the aged.” Proverbs 17:6. The rippling effects of her well-lived life will be felt for generations.

Rachel lived a long and purpose-filled life, characterized by devotion to God and service to others. She will be greatly missed by the countless relatives and friends whose lives she touched.

Friends are invited to Redmon Funeral Home, 3633 Darrow Road, Stow, for visitation, Tuesday, from 4 to 7 PM. Pastor Cary Wadle will conduct service Wednesday, 11:30 AM, at The Lighthouse, 315 Graham Road, Cuyahoga Falls 44223, where friends may call from 11 AM until service time. Burial Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Lighthouse or to a charity of your choice.