Elizabeth Nelson Richardson

Elizabeth Anne Nelson “Betty Anne” Richardson passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026. Born on July 8, 1936, she lived her entire life in Columbia, South Carolina. Betty Anne was the daughter of James Kelly Nelson and Katharine Wallace Nelson. She graduated from Dreher High School, attended Converse College, and later graduated from the University of South Carolina, where she was a member of Kappa Delta Sorority. She met her high school sweetheart, Don Richardson, at the Pawleys Pavilion, and they married shortly after graduating from college.

Betty Anne was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a steadfast friend. She was active for decades in the Junior League of Columbia and the Wistaria Garden Club. She also co-chaired the Brookgreen Gardens Gala and took pride in her membership in the Ann Pamela Cunningham Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, along with other civic and community organizations.

A faithful member of Trinity Cathedral, Betty Anne served on the Altar Guild and gave generously of her time and talents to the Trinity Bazaar. She and her husband, Don, were longtime members of the Forest Lake Club. They were also active in several social clubs, including the Camellia Ball, the Flamenco Club, and the Quadrille Club.
Betty Anne and Don traveled extensively with friends, but what she cherished most was her time at Pawleys Island - mornings by the ocean and sunsets over the marsh. Affectionately known as “Two Mom,” she delighted in supporting her grandchildren in their activities. She rarely missed a game, recital or performance, cheering them on with unwavering pride.

In her later years, she resided at Still Hopes Retirement Community, where she enjoyed playing bridge, Shanghai, and Rummikub as well as spending time with her large circle of friends. Her grace, kindness, hospitality, and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Donald Valentine Richardson III, and her brother, James Kelly Nelson, Jr.

She is survived by her three children: Anne Richardson Seabrook (March), Deans Richardson Fawcett (Peter), and Donald Valentine Richardson IV; her nine grandchildren: Nelson Seabrook (Hanna), Richard Seabrook (Ansley), Elizabeth Seabrook McCutchen (David), Margaret Deans Fawcett Grantz (Derrick), Gavin Fawcett (Mary Adele), Patrick Fawcett (Heyward), Donald Fawcett (Caroline), Anne Fawcett, and Rutherford Fawcett; and her eleven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Carolyn Wimberly (Marvin) of St. Matthews; her sister-in-law, Margaret Richardson Hall of Marion; and her nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Cathedral on Tuesday, May 5 at 2 p.m. A private interment will precede the service. The family will receive friends at the home of Deans and Peter Fawcett on Monday, May 4 from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.

The family extends sincere gratitude to the staff of Still Hopes Saluda Neighborhood and Prisma Hospice for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Camp Cole, 1571 Crossing Creek Road, Eastover, SC 29044; Hammond School, 854 Galway Lane, Columbia, SC 29209; Trinity Cathedral, 1100 Sumter Street, Columbia, SC 29201; or a charity of one’s choice.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements.