Risa Long Nolting, 48, of Irmo and formerly of Newberry died Saturday, August 26, 2023 at Lexington Hospice House, surrounded by her family.

Born on August 18, 1975 in Newberry, she is a daughter of Michael "Mike" Long and Marcia Ruff Long. She has been a life-long member of Bethany Lutheran Church and also attended Lebonan United Methodist Church.

Risa received her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Newberry College and then her Master's degree in Education from Southern Weslyan University. She was passionate about education and was in her 23rd year of teaching before her health required, she leave the profession. She taught 1st Grade initially but found her calling to be 3rd Grade at River Springs Elementary School.

She loved dogs, especially poodles, and could even be considered by some to be a poodle fanatic. She enjoyed watching USC Gamecock football games and shopping. Risa was honest and direct, telling you like she saw it, and often being the voice of reason. She was a good daughter, one who made her parents very proud, and a loving wife and mother. Her family was her greatest joy and her greatest accomplishment. She treasured any time she could spend with them making memories, especially family vacations, trips to the beach and mountains.

Risa is survived by her husband of 29 years, Darren Nolting; children, Taylor Nolting of Pendleton and Reece Nolting of Irmo; brother, Kurt Long (Melissa) of Pomaria; sister, Kathleen Long Harmon (Wyman) of Prosperity; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins; parents-in-law, Joyce and Jerry Nolting; and brother and sister-in-law, Eric and Candace Nolting.

She is predeceased by her grandparents, Roy and Doris Long, Nolan Ruff and Betty Ruff Schumpert; and step-grandfather, Don Schumpert.

Funeral services will be conducted by Rev. William Hightower at 10 AM, Thursday, August 31, 2023 at Whitaker Funeral Home, Newberry. Burial will follow in Newberry Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, Wednesday, August 30 at Whitaker Funeral Home, Newberry.

Memorials are suggested to Lebanon United Methodist Church, c/o Phillip Ruff, 135 S. Wheeler Avenue, Prosperity, SC 29127; or to the American Cancer Society,www.cancer.org.

Memories and messages may be shared with the family here on Risa's tribute page.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Nolting family.