Judy Bryson Quinn

Judy Bryson Quinn, of Leicester, North Carolina, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at the age of 76 after a brief illness, which she faced with courage and grace.

Born and raised in Whittier, North Carolina, Judy was the daughter of the late Paul and Lola Bryson. She carried with her a deep love for her mountain roots throughout her life.

Judy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Rick; her children: Regina Wiggins and husband Doug, with grandson Tanner; Elizabeth Shope and husband Brandon, with grandchildren Luke, Jake, Delia, and Josey; Nathan Quinn and Kristin, with grandchildren Connor, Parker, Sophia, and Aliyah; and Cinnamon Quinn, with grandchildren Zaiden, Kanaan, and Greyson. She is also survived by her sister, Betsy Kirby and family of Granite Falls, North Carolina.

Judy shared a special bond with her lifelong friends Judy, Frances, Henrietta, and Farren, as well as her business partner Marie and dear craft friends Lois, Patti, Libby, and Sandy. She was deeply loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

A talented and accomplished fiber artist and businesswoman, Judy spent more than 25 years supporting local mountain crafters and artisans through her beloved shop, Asheville NC Homecrafts. She co-ran the store for over two decades and was an award-winning basket maker, known for her creativity, skill, and dedication to preserving traditional mountain crafts. Before its location in the Grove Arcade, her business was based at Lilac Hill in Erwin Hills.

Throughout her life, Judy held a variety of roles, including working as a finance accountant with the North Carolina Forest Service in Asheville. She also worked alongside her late husband, James Sossamon, helping manage The Money Tree stores in Asheville and Marion, and assisting with Tuckasegee Mills. Earlier in her career, she worked at McKeever, Edwards, Davis & Hayes in Bryson City. Judy also found success as a Mary Kay consultant, sharing her love of beauty and confidence with others.

Judy found her greatest joy in her family, especially her grandchildren. She rarely missed a game or activity and was a constant source of love and encouragement.

She was also a gifted teacher, sharing her knowledge of fiber arts, sewing, quilting, knitting, and basket making with others.

She loved traveling with her lifelong girlfriends, cherishing their time together sewing, talking, and making memories.

At home, Judy found peace tending to her flowers and sitting on her porch swing, reflecting with gratitude on the many blessings in her life. She could always, no matter the season, no matter the time the place or the weather find something to be grateful for. She loved the flowers and new life of spring, the warmth of summer, the beauty of fall, and the sparkle of a freshly fallen snow in winter. She was so proud of the home and land the Lord blessed her with. While her passion may have been craft her peace was flowers.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to friends Frances and Judy, and family members Ann and Beth, for their love and support and for sitting with Judy during her care.

A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Zion Hill Baptist Church, 1008 Newfound Rd, Leicester, NC 28748, with Pastor Ricky Wolfe officiating. A private burial will follow at the Sunny Acres Family Cemetery.

Judy’s strength, creativity, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Anders Rice and Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve the Quinn Family.