World's longest serving KFC worker dies after battle with cancer
Pauline Richards was known as 'Miss KFC'
Last updated 21st Jul 2025
After serving the community of Taunton in Somerset for 47 years, the woman who's the world's longest-serving KFC worker has sadly passed away.
Pauline Richards - otherwise known as 'Miss KFC' - was battling cancer.
She started at the branch all the way back in 1978, with locals calling her 'a pint sized lady with a powerhouse personality'.
It's estimated she - quite literally - served millions of chicken drumsticks during her time behind the counter.
Sharing the sad news on Facebook, her son and daughter Tracey and Wayne confirmed: "It is with a very heavy heart that Tracey Sutton and Wayne Sutton has had to announce the sad lost of our dearest loving mum Pauline Richards to cancer today.
"We please asked that we and our family are to be left alone to grieve."
'A beloved member of our community'
Taunton Town Council paid tribute on social media, saying: "We’re saddened by the passing of Pauline Richards, aka Miss KFC, a beloved member of our community and a very deserving recipient of one of our Civic Awards earlier this year.
"Our thoughts are with her family and friends."
Whilst local estate agent Eden May added: "Let’s please just take a moment to send our condolences to the family and friends (and that probably includes most of Taunton) of the very lovely Pauline Richards who has passed away.
"After 48 years working at the town’s KFC, there’s barely anyone who’s local that doesn’t recognise this lovely face.
"A pint sized lady with a powerhouse personality.
"A Taunton treasure, much loved and most definitely will be missed.
"RIP Pauline."