Richard Michael Bayersdorfer

Richard “Rich” Bayersdorfer, 72, went home to be with the Lord on August 9, 2026, after an 8+ year battle with Frontotemporal Dementia.

Rich was born in the Bronx, New York, and grew up in Brewster, New York, where he was a Hall of Fame athlete in both basketball and football. He went on to play basketball at Dowling College and Western Connecticut State University before spending his twenties in Los Angeles, California — a chapter of his life he always remembered fondly.

Rich eventually made his way back to New York, where, in 1986, he met the love of his life, Susan, while they were both working at the Dannon Company. They married in 1988 and moved to Atlanta, Georgia the following year, where they built a beautiful life together and raised their son Ryan and daughter Shannon.

An avid sports fan, Rich coached basketball for both of his children and dedicated countless hours to his community through his involvement with the Harrison Youth Basketball Association (HYBA) and the Harrison High School Basketball Booster Club. When he was not coaching, he could often be found cheering on his beloved New York Yankees, Jets, and Knicks, along with his adopted hometown Atlanta Braves.

After his children left home, some of Rich’s favorite years were spent visiting them in Athens, Georgia, where he enthusiastically embraced the Georgia Bulldogs. Few things made him happier than the excitement of a Saturday in Athens.

Those fortunate enough to know him knew a man who simply loved people. Rich was intrinsically kind, gracious, and loyal. He had a larger-than-life personality, never met a stranger, and carried an undeniable light with him wherever he went. He had a way of making people feel welcome and turning acquaintances into friends.

Rich certainly never met a party he did not like. If you invited him to yours, there was a good chance he would end up being the life of it. His laughter, energy and joy were infectious, and the memories made in his presence will continue to bring smiles to those who loved him.

Above all else, Rich loved his family and friends deeply. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and the beloved “Bays” to his grandsons, Brooks and Baker — a title he wore with tremendous pride.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Sr. and Irene Bayersdorfer. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Susan Bayersdorfer; his children, Ryan (Lauren) Bayersdorfer and Shannon Bayersdorfer; his grandsons, Brooks and Baker Bayersdorfer; his brothers, Gene (Janet), Robert (Jennifer), and Kevin (Elissa) Bayersdorfer; his father-in-law, Dick Brooks (Karen); his brother-in-law, Rich Brooks; his nieces, Lindsay Bayersdorfer, Kate Edmiston, Abby Bayersdorfer, Shawna Mercer, Courtney Hubbard; his nephew, Elias Bayersdorfer; and numerous cousins.

Rich’s absence leaves an unfillable void in the lives of those who loved him, but his family finds comfort in knowing that after a long journey, he is finally whole again and home with his Lord and Savior.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the dedicated staff and caregivers at Varenita West Cobb and the nurses at Trinity Hospice.

A Celebration of Life will be held at NorthStar Church, 3413 Blue Springs Road, Kennesaw, GA on September 12th at 11:00 am. Afterward, a gathering of family and friends will be held at Red Top Brewhouse, 4637 South Main Street, Acworth, GA from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. If desired, wear red and black attire the way Rich would have on a Fall Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Rich’s name to NorthStar Church, Kennesaw, Georgia.