02/26/2026
Prayers to the family!
Tommy Dorsey Rich, age 76, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, surrounded by his family at his home in Arnoldsville, Georgia.
Tommy was born on September 16, 1949, in Royston, Georgia, to the late Dorsey and Jeanette Rich. He worked for 22 years at Athens Regional Medical Center in the Engineering Department as a skilled carpenter and cabinet builder. Prior to his carpentry career, he worked as a collector for C & S Bank and was also employed by Driver Construction.
Tommy proudly served six years in the United States Army Reserves. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather for over 46 years and was lovingly known as "Pop" to many family members and friends.
He had a lifelong passion for horses and roping and could often be found at horse shows and rodeos throughout the years. Tommy served as both President and Vice-President of the Madison County and Oglethorpe County Saddle Clubs and was a member of the Georgia Rodeo Cowboy Association. Whether making announcements or preparing the grounds, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. He had a true servant's heart and generously shared his talents with others throughout his life.
An exceptionally skilled tradesman, Tommy had a remarkable gift for building furniture and countless other projects that will be cherished for years to come. He enjoyed early morning hot breakfasts with his closest friends and treasured the fellowship those gatherings brought.
Later in life, he operated sound equipment for karaoke events, churches, rehabilitation facilities, and many other venues. He loved singing gospel music on karaoke nights with friends and could often be heard singing at his local church on Sunday mornings. Tommy also enjoyed fishing, Diet Mountain Dews, and sitting on the front porch sharing good conversation with anyone who stopped by.
Tommy is survived by his loving wife, Lisa Y. Rich; his children, Kevin Rich, Leslie Brady (Chris), and Morgan Rich (Ivy); his grandchildren, Danielle Thomas (John), Jayda Wynne, Riley Sisk, J.C. and Sophia Dawson, and Dwaylon Ray Rich; his great-grandson, Robert Bryant Thomas; his sister, Martha Osley (Randy); and his brother, Bobby W. Rich (Erah).
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Allen Rich.
Tommy touched countless lives with his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and community. He is now whole and healed, spending eternity with his Lord and Savior. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A memorial service will be held on March 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Sandy Cross Baptist Church (791 Lexington-Carlton Rd, Carlton, GA 30627).
The Central Cremation Services staff considers it a privilege to support the family of Tommy Dorsey Rich during this time. (Please do not send flowers to the cremation facility.)
Obituary published courtesy of Pruitt Funeral Home in Royston, Georgia.
