Sharon Elizabeth Austin, 67, of Branford, died on April 14 at the Connecticut Hospice.  Sharon was born on June 16, 1945 in New London, daughter of the late Gordon and Mary Bean Rich.  She was a friend of Bill W. 

Sharon loved Branford, especially spending time at Branford Point. She was an active woman who played in many softball, dart, and bowling leagues. She was also an avid Bingo player. 

Sharon’s family thanks the staffs at the Branford Hills Health Care Center and the Connecticut Hospice for the care and concern shown to Sharon while she was in their care. 

Sharon is survived by her children, Trista Milici and her husband Michael of Branford, Edward Richkowski and his wife Dawn of Branford, and David Vitali of Guilford; two sisters, Linda Rich of New Haven and Nancy Alexander of Ivoryton; two brothers, David Rich of New Haven and Gordon Rich of Old Saybrook; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.  She was predeceased by her brother Gerald Rich.

Relatives and friends may call on Wednesday, April 17, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the W. S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main St., Branford.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Branford Hills Health Care Center, 189 Alps Rd., Branford, or to the Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405.  For directions and online memorial see www.wsclancy.com.