Kathy Cotney Rish, 75, a cherished member of the Prosperity community, passed away Friday, August 1, 2025, at the age of 75.

Born in Newberry, SC, on December 1, 1949, Kathy was a beloved daughter of the late Birtrun Cotney and Earlene Marie Stockman Cotney.

Kathy worked for the state at Richland County Health department for over 20 years and later for the Newberry County Disability and Special Needs Board at the McCullough House for several years. She dedicated the remainder of her career to nurturing the students at Mid-Carolina High School and Middle School, where she worked as a cafeteria worker. Known for her warm smile and kind heart, she made a lasting impact on the lives of many young people, offering them not just nourishment but also encouragement and kindness.

A true people person, Kathy was renowned for maintaining lifelong friendships and cherishing her family. Her home was often filled with laughter and conversation, as she loved spending time with those she held dear. Kathy was an avid collector of angels, finding beauty and solace in their varied forms. This was a reflection of her profound connection with her faith. She was a lifelong member of Bethel Baptist Church, where she worshiped her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Kathy's love for her community was evident in all she did, but it was her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought her the greatest joy. She was immensely proud of her sons and grandchildren, always celebrating their achievements with pride and joy.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Paul Rish and Frank James Rish, Jr. (Penny); grandchildren, Samantha Rish (Lonnie), Caitlyn Rish, Crystal Barnes, Brier White, Rebecca Griffith, Garrett Griffith and Makayla Griffith; niece, Regina Boland; and nephews, Stacy Boland and Charles Cotney. Kathy is also survived by a host of great nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sisters, Cheryl Toscano and Sandra Worley; and brother, Lanier Cotney.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM, Friday, August 8, 2025, at Whitaker Funeral Home, Newberry, officiated by Rev. Wako Cotney.

The family will receive family and friends for a time of visitation, prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 PM.

The family welcomes those who wish to visit at the home of Samantha Rish, Thursday, August 7, 2025, from 3:00PM until 7:00 PM. Address: 159 Vance Rd. Batesburg, SC, 29006.

The family would like to extend their warmest appreciation to Rev. Wako Cotney, Janice Meeks, Melody Werts, Judy Fulmer, and Janie Rauch-Westphal for the unsurpassed love and care they provided over the many years.

In honor of Kathy's life and legacy, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Association or the Susan G. Komen Foundation, organizations she supported passionately.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Kathy Rish.