Betty Sue (Richards) Parsons

April 18, 1949 – June 8, 2026

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Betty Sue Richards Parsons, who entered into eternal rest peacefully at her home on June 8, 2026, at the age of 77. Surrounded by love and the comfort of home, Betty’s final moments reflected the peace she shared so freely throughout her life.

Born on April 18, 1949 in Jackson County, NC, Betty was the beloved daughter of the late Carl Edgar Richards and Vera Raby Richards. Also preceding her in death were her Grandparents Frank and Vernie Raby, her husband, Foard Parsons, and her sister, Verna Richards Cooper.

Betty spent many years working in the pizza business and customer service industry, where she was known for her friendly spirit and caring heart. She had a gift for making people feel welcomed and valued, and she carried that same love into every part of her life.

Betty enjoyed spending time at yard sales, flea markets, and antique shops. She loved finding hidden treasures and preserving pieces of history through antiquing. She also enjoyed traveling to Pigeon Forge, TN and Moses Creek, NC, her home place, where being surrounded by family and reconnecting with her roots meant so much to her. She also enjoyed watching True Crime stories and professional wrestling and looked forward to the excitement and entertainment it brought her. She really enjoyed her coffee and glass bottle Coca Cola’s.

Her greatest joy came in spending time with and spoiling her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Each had a special interest they shared with their Memaw including VW’s, Wrestling, Tea and Coffee parties and many more. She treasured family above all else and made it a point to call, check in, and stay connected with the people she loved. She created countless memories through simple moments of love, laughter, and togetherness. She also adored her pets, especially her faithful dog, Maddie, who brought her endless companionship and joy.

Left to cherish her memory are brothers Frank “Eddie” Richards of Lincolnton and James “Jimmy” Richards of Conover; daughters Angela (Michael) Ledford of Hickory, Carla (Barry) Brotherton of Newton, and Megan Parsons of the home, son Charles “Jamie” (Kelly) Wright of Granite Falls, Stepdaughters Robbin Buchanan of Morganton, Wanda (Rick) Hall of Hildebran, Brenda (Bobby) Bush of Hickory and Emily Huffman of South Carolina. Grandchildren Jesse David of Hickory, Casey Wright of Lincolnton, Christopher Nackley of Hickory, Courtney (Ethan) Eyler of Florida, Darien Ledford and Tore Ledford of Colorado, Matthew Brotherton and Carly Brotherton of Newton; great-grandchildren Gracelyn Wright and Quill Wright of Lincolnton, as well as a multitude of extended family and close friends.

Above all, Betty loved the Lord and lived her faith quietly and faithfully. Through every season—joy, change, hardship, and blessing—she trusted God’s plan and found peace in His promises.

As Scripture reminds us: “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:23

Her faith showed in how she lived: through compassion, love for her family, and a servant’s heart. She found purpose in caring for and gifting to others and cherished God’s daily blessings. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace and reunited with loved ones who went before her.

Receiving of friends will be held at Hickory Funeral Home; 1031 11th Avenue Blvd. S.E. Hickory, NC 28602 on June 14, 2026 from 12:30 pm to 1:45 pm, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 pm at the Hickory Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by the Rev. Marcus Ollis. Serving as Pallbearers include Wayne Searles, Michael Ledford, Zac Cooper, Jesse David, Matthew Brotherton and Cooper Young.

Entombment will take place at Catawba Memorial Park in Hickory, NC on June 14, 2026 immediately following the service.

Memorials can be made to Moses Creek Baptist Church, 966 Moses Creek Road, Cullowhee, NC 28723 or the COPD Foundation, PO Box 160112, Miami, FL 33116-0112.