Donald E. “Don” Rich

Donald E. “Don” Rich, age 96 of Gainesville, passed away on April 30, 2017. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 pm on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at the Chapel of First Baptist Church.  Dr. Bill Coates and Rev. Bruce Fields will be officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 – 2:30pm on Wednesday, May 3, 2017 at Memorial Park North Riverside Chapel.

Don was born on June 15, 1920 in Bainbridge, Georgia to the late Charles Ross Rich and the late Orion McLellan Rich. Don received his Bachelors of Science in Education from Youngstown State University, Masters of Education from Vandercook College of Music, and his Master of School Administration from the University of Georgia. Don served for 39.5 months in the Army Air Corp. He spent some time stationed overseas in India.  After his military service, Don was the Director of Music for Gainesville High school from 1947-1966 and served as principal at Johnson High School from 1977-1979. Don served the Hall County School system in many different ways throughout his career. Don was a member of the First Baptist Church and served as the Director of Music from 1955-1957. Don’s passion and love of music served him throughout his life.  He was an avid attender and supporter of the Atlanta Symphony.  Don always supported the high schools music programs throughout his life. He will be remembered by many students for his dedication to their careers and education.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 41 years Reba Ramsey Rich; his parents; brother Charles Rich of Chicago, IL. He is survived by his son James R. Rich (Ola) of Gainesville; grandchildren Neal Rich (Ashley) of Braselton, Ann Rich Martin of Ellijay, John R. Rich of Gainesville; great-grandchildren Thomas Rich of Braselton; John and Claire Wheeler of Ellijay; special care-giver and friend Jennifer Flowers Byers; care-giver Bobbie Wingo; sister-in-law Hasmick Rich of Chicago, IL; nephew Ross Rich of Chicago, IL; niece Claire Rich of New York; nieces Jill Ramsey Mansfield and Kristen Ramsey Clyde. Don is also survived by his best friend Heyward Gnann.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the music program at First Baptist Church, 751 Green Street, Gainesville, Georgia 30501. Online condolences can be made at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com. Memorial Park North Riverside Chapel 989 Riverside Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30501 770-297-6200.