Mark William Richards

Mark William Richards, age 53, of Edenton, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on March 4, 2026. Born on October 3, 1972, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, he was the son of the late Walter David Richards III and Margaret Edda Bolland Richards.

Mark graduated from Northeastern High School in Elizabeth City and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from East Carolina University. He devoted his career to caring for others, advancing from ER technician to Nurse Supervisor at ECU Health Chowan Medical Center. Colleagues remembered him as a calm and steady presence in difficult moments, a natural leader, and a “gentle giant” who truly cared for his patients and coworkers. He had a gift for easing tension with a well-timed joke and was respected by all who worked alongside him.

Outside of work, Mark loved sports, especially basketball, volleyball, and golf. He generously coached youth basketball, volleyball, and soccer, sharing his passion with his own children and many young athletes in the community. He also enjoyed working with his hands, taking pride in building and improving his home, and was always willing to lend a hand to neighbors and friends.

Mark is survived by his children, Ian Richards, Andrew Richards, and Ella Richards; his brother, Andrew Richards (Linda); and his cousin, Joseph Bolland. He was previously married to Tamara Balog, mother of Andrew and Ella, and Dana Newbern, mother of Ian.