First Liberty Baptist Church, 1995 Rock Mill Road, Dillwyn, welcomes its new senior pastor, the Rev. Tanya D. Richardson.

Born in Charlottesville, Richardson is the daughter of Theresa Williams. Richardson resides in Louisa with her husband, Deacon Terry Richardson.

A nursing professional for more than 20 years, Richardson is employed at University of Virginia Hospital’s Oncology Department. 

Richardson began her Christian walk under the guidance of her grandmother, the late Virginia A. Williams, at Ebenezer Baptist Church. She continued her path to ministry at Pilgrim Baptist Church, also in Charlottesville, and served there for 22 years with the late Rev. Dr. R.A. Johnson.

In 2005 Richardson and her family joined Galilee Baptist Church in Louisa, where she continues to serve. Richardson was licensed as a Baptist minister in 2010 and was ordained in 2015. Richardson remains active in various ministries at Galilee, including Ministerial Council, Prison Ministry, Women’s Ministry, Music Ministry and Christian Education Ministry.

“First Liberty Baptist Church welcomes and is excited to have Rev. Richardson join the congregation as its new pastor and shepherd,” a church spokesperson said.