Tommy Rich

Tommy F. Rich (a.k.a., Wildfire, or TR), 81, of Dalton, GA passed away on Monday, January 1, 2024, at Quinton Memorial Nursing Home and Rehabilitation. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom Henry (Buck) and Helen Rich, and his wife, Jean Setters.

Tommy is survived by his children, Candi Rich Hunt of Alpharetta, Jimmy Rich (Edith) of Dalton, and Bart Rich (Ashley) of Dalton, and Julie Rich Cantrell of Dalton; step-daughter, Paula Setters of Dalton; grandchildren, Emily Rich of Dalton, Nate Rich of Los Angeles, CA, Mackenzie Hunt of Alpharetta, Cal Rich, John Henry Wilkerson, Wells Wilkerson, Creed Rich, Ande Rich, Sarah Cantrell, and Ashley Cantrell all of Dalton; great-grandchildren, Ezra and Eliot Cerentano of Dalton; and brother, Danny Rich (Margie) of Summerville. Many special nieces and nephews also survive.

Tommy, a Trion, GA native, embraced his love for baseball in his hometown before relocating to Dalton in the late '60s. His proficiency on the baseball field led him to Dalton, where he found both work and a passion for softball with E&B Mills. Softball provided him the opportunity to travel, and Panama City Beach (PCB) became his cherished vacation spot. Throughout the '70s and '80s, Tommy, a dedicated single father, combined his love for softball and raising his children, leaving an enduring legacy of commitment and joy.

Tommy was a sports enthusiast! He loved baseball, especially the New York Yankees, and football, with his favorite team being the Dallas Cowboys. He also loved NASCAR racing, with his favorite drivers being Dale Earnhardt and Jeff Gordon. Tommy was an avid music listener. Tommy's deep love for music was evident, especially through his 15+ years of attending the River Bend Music Festival.

His greatest love in his life though was his family. His family held the utmost importance in his life. After retiring at 62, he devoted himself to wholeheartedly supporting his children and grandchildren, attending sports games, dance recitals, and graduations.

Special thanks to Quinton Memorial Health & Rehabilitation and Hamilton Hospice for the care they provided.

A memorial service for Tommy Rich will be held on Friday, January 5, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Love Funeral Home with Reverend Robert Gillean officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the memorial service from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the funeral home.