Richard Nesby

Mr. Richard Nesby departed this life peacefully at Advent Health in Hendersonville, NC, on October 16, 2025.

A native of Henderson County, he was born on September 19, 1951, to the late Emily Copney Nesby and the late Hasker Pea, Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Yvonne Pea and James Pea.

Richard attended Shiloh Elementary School, Valley Springs Elementary School, and T.C. Roberson High School. He was one of fourteen students who integrated Valley Springs Elementary in 1964.

A true visionary, Richard was business-savvy and the epitome of a self-made man. He was a highly successful entrepreneur and the owner of Richie Rich Jewelry Store. Though he had no formal training, he possessed remarkable architectural talent and was widely respected as a commercial and residential builder.

Richard will always be remembered as a devoted and loving father, mentor, and friend. He took pride in staying connected to his family, friends, and community. Attentive to the needs of others, especially his loved ones, Richard’s generosity and presence will be deeply missed.

Left to cherish his memory are his children: Richard Darity, Franklin Darity, Emily Nesby, Richie Wroten, Solomon Nesby, Ryan Nesby, Janiqua Nesby, Ryan McKelvey, Richard McKelvey, and Jalen McKelvey; his siblings: Olivia Nesby, Rhugena Ferguson, Gregory Gist, Annie Bell Taylor, Hasker Pea, Jr., and Richard Pea; along with a host of grandchildren, other relatives, and friends.

He will be forever loved and remembered.

A Funeral Service to honor the life of Richard will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Nazareth First Missionary Baptist Church (146 Pine St.), at 1pm. He will lie is state one hour prior to the service. Burial will be at St. John Cemetery (67 St. John Rd), immediately following the service. Viewing will be held at Avery’s Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, from 12pm – 7pm. The service will be live streamed on Avery's Memorial Chapel's website.

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