The University of Richmond basketball community is reeling from the sudden loss of Melissa Richmond, the mother of Spiders standout DeLonnie Hunt, who passed away unexpectedly this week.
Known for her radiant energy, generous spirit, and presence at Spiders games, Melissa’s death leaves a massive void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the wider Richmond athletics family.
Melissa Richmond Was A Mother, Fighter, And Cheerleader
Melissa Richmond was DeLonnie’s anchor, champion, and hero.
Despite being chronically ill since her son was just six years old, she never let her health define her.
DeLonnie wrote in a deeply emotional GoFundMe tribute,
“I’m now 23, and although I was aware of her situation, I would’ve never thought I’d be in a situation to say goodbye this early to the most important person in my life.”
Via GoFundMe
As a single mother raising her son in Upper Marlboro, Melissa made sure her love was louder than her hardships.
She was the heartbeat of the Robins Center during her son’s college basketball career, who was cheering from the stands, lifting spirits, and making everyone feel like family.
For the past two years, Melissa’s enthusiastic voice echoed through Richmond’s home games. Her pride in DeLonnie was unmistakable.
She rarely missed a game, often becoming the loudest and most passionate fan in the arena.
Affectionately known as “THE team mom,” her joyful presence uplifted both players and supporters.
Richmond Men’s Basketball wrote in a statement,
“Melissa was the heart of the Spiders cheering section. The Robins Center won’t be the same without her.”
Melissa wasn’t just a cheerleader for her son; she encouraged everyone she met.
I’m lost man, I literally just had half of my heart taken from me 💔💔💔💔
— Delonnie Hunt (@Legendarylow_) June 10, 2025
Friends and family describe her as a light in the darkest moments, a soul who never stopped giving, even when she had every reason to take a step back.
DeLonnie said,
“My mom had a kind soul, a giving spirit, and always found a way to lift others up and light up the room, even in her hardest moments.”
She not only helped raise her own child but also uplifted others through encouragement, hugs, and warmth that reached far beyond her immediate circle.
Similarly, Auria Aguilar, the mother of DeLonnie’s girlfriend, wrote,
“Melissa raised her son by herself and was his number one fan—always encouraging him to excel in sports and academics. She never missed any game.”
GoFundMe Has Been Organized To Give A Farewell To THE Team Mom
A GoFundMe campaign was created by DeLonnie and loved ones to help cover funeral expenses and give Melissa the farewell she truly deserves.
The response has been extraordinary, with over $18,000 raised, far surpassing its original $10,000 goal.
“Now, in our time of grief, I’m hoping to give her the farewell she truly deserves by surrounding her with the ones she touched and sending her off the right way.”
DeLonnie’s girlfriend,
“Ms. Melissa was my second mom. All donations are going directly to help him and his grandma through this loss.”
Just weeks before her passing, Melissa proudly watched her son graduate from the University of Richmond, capping off a college career filled with leadership, strength, and heart.
DeLonnie served as a two-time captain of the Spiders men’s basketball team and became a respected figure both on and off the court.
He wrote in a tweet,
“You touched so many people and showed how proud of me you were every chance you got! thought you were bragging—but you were just embracing the best thing that had ever happened to you… ME.”
