Richard Lawton Bryson

Richard Lawton Bryson, affectionately known to all as Richie, age 36, met Jesus on Sunday morning, November 3, 2024, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Richie’s tenderness and warmth were largely formed during his time at McCarthy Teszler School, where he attended and graduated, etched forever in the hearts of his classmates and teachers alike. His big smile was a beacon of light, and his infectious sense of belonging made every day brighter. Despite navigating the world as a non-verbal child and young man, confined to a wheelchair, Richie communicated through love and laughter, leaving an indelible mark on the lives he touched.

Described as a bit mischievous, Richie had a playful spirit, an eager adventurer at heart. He thrived on experiences, particularly reveling in visits to his grandparents' homes with his brother, Andrew, where cherished bonds flourished. He carried with him a unique personality that always made room for others, never meeting a stranger, and ensuring that once he connected with someone, they remained in his heart forever. Outings, especially those shared with family and friends, were his joy. Going out to eat was something Richie loved to do, and he always wanted to be dressed in his hat and sunglasses, even when it was dark outside. It was times like these when he bonded with family and friends and made lots of memories.

Richie's eclectic tastes brought color into his life—his favorite hues danced between the bright vibrancy of red and the warmth of orange. He loved the brightness of all the cars on his travels and his enthusiasm showed through the car windows. 

He is survived by his adoring parents, Barry L. and Denise Baines Bryson, along with his beloved brother, Andrew (Brandon) Bryson. The legacy of love continues through his maternal grandparents, Richard and Katie Baines, known lovingly as Daddy Rich and Mimi. Richie also leaves behind two cherished nieces, Sully and Sawyer Bryson, as well as his devoted aunt, Susan (Frank) Cannella, and uncles, Jeffery (Kim) Bryson and Ben Bryson, alongside a large and loving extended family who will miss him immeasurably.

Waiting for Richie when he arrived in heaven were his paternal grandparents that passed before him, Carolyn (Memaw) and B.B. Bryson Jr., (Poppa). 

In the quiet moments of remembrance, the echoes of Richie's smile will linger, a reminder of a life filled not only with challenges but also with immense love and joy—a radiant spirit whose absence will be deeply felt, yet whose cherished memories will continue to illuminate the lives he touched. 

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 8 from 2:00 to 2:45 pm at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 309 Fernwood Drive, Spartanburg, SC 29307. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3:00 pm in the church with the Rev. Steve Wise officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials in Richie's name be made to The Charles Lee Foundation,

 https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/CharlesLeaCenterFoundation/OnlineDonation.html or to the Greenwood Genetic Foundation at https://ggc.org/foundation .