Brenna Kathleen Richardson

Brenna Kathleen Richardson, age 35, of Hayesville, North Carolina passed away Saturday, September 19, 2026. She was born in Jackson, Mississippi to Melvin and Esther (Cottle) Rigsby on October 29, 1990. Following Jackson, Brenna also lived in Kentucky, New Mexico, Singapore, Georgia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands before settling in Hayesville for the past 10 years.

Brenna was an employee of Union County Public Library, where she worked for two years as the Youth Services Specialist. There she created displays, artwork, and programming that were loved and adored by patrons and staff alike.

With a bachelor's degree from LaGrange College in painting and ceramics, Brenna also displayed and sold several art pieces and sculptures in local galleries over the years. She had a master's degree in art therapy from Saint Mary of The Woods College, and she had a special passion for working with children and individuals with special needs.

All who encountered Brenna will remember the way she lit up the room, and her innate ability to make everyone feel seen, valued, and welcome. Those who knew her remember her deep love, wonder, and awe of nature. Brenna’s creativity, compassion, and love for others will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family, friends, and colleagues.

She is survived by her husband of 14 years: Josh Richardson; her parents: Melvin and Esther; brothers: Joshua (Christina) Rigsby, Caleb (Krista) Rigsby, and Reuben Rigsby; maternal grandmother: Ruth Cottle and paternal grandfather: M.L. Rigsby; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. 

Memorial Service: Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 11:00am at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Hayesville, North Carolina.