Deidre Hayes Ricci was born in Boston to working-class parents. Her father worked for the transit system. Her mother was a baker for a well-known Boston bakery; she specialized in cookies. Deidre was an excellent student and was a star volleyball player on her high school team. Deidre was voted “most attractive” for her beauty and popularity.
After graduation, Deidre enrolled in Boston College, wanting to stay in the Boston area. She wasn’t sure what her major would be. Deidre became a cheerleader in her sophomore year. In the same year, Deidre attracted attention from a Playboy Magazine photographer. Although she wasn’t interested in doing a Playboy spread, the photographer told her she to try modelling. Black models were in vogue and she was sure to attract attention in the fashion world.
She became a prominent fashion runway model in the 1950s, notably one of the few African American models at that time. She worked in London, Paris, Milan and Venice. Top designers were eager to have Deidre wear their couture lines.
Deidre met Tony Ricci in Milan. They were instantly smitten with each other. Tony treated Deidre to special dinners, jewelry and travel across Europe. The gregarious Tony won Deidre’s heart with his wit and his self-assured personality. After a period of courtship, they married, despite the societal prejudice against interracial marriage. The Ricci family embraced her from the beginning. Deidre continued to model in New York’s runway shows, becoming part of New York’s glitterati. She and Tony led an exceptional life. Deidre also began helping her sister-in-law Franny Ricci with her interior design business.
Deidre’s modeling career changed in 1954 when, to her surprise, she became pregnant. Her and Tony weren’t thinking about starting a family. They both enjoyed the carefree lifestyle of the New York elite. Happily, they welcomed their son, Mario Antonio Ricci, or Rio for short.
The Riccis cherished their son. Deidre took Rio to art gallery openings, teaching him about art and also exposing him to music. Deidre took pride in her son’s interests. She marveled as Rio became a talented musician. Deidre believed her son had star quality and would do everything to make her son’s dreams come true.