Terrence “Terry” LaVerne Rich

Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather

Terry Rich, age 89, of Canton, Georgia, passed away after a short battle with cancer on January 6, 2026. He is survived by his wife, Frances; his son, Thomas Rich (Michelle); his daughters, Louri Call (Jack), Christine Stasko (John), and Cynthia Elmstrom (Michael); 10 grandchildren; two siblings; and many nieces and nephews.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Terry was the third of five children raised by his parents, Jack and Laverne Rich. He excelled in math and science early on, which led to numerous opportunities far beyond the Ohio state line. After graduating from Withrow High School, he spent two years at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York, before entering the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Following graduation from USMA, Terry was commissioned in the Corps of Engineers. His tours of duty took him to Korea, Vietnam, Germany, and California. The Corps then sent him to The Ohio State University for a Master's in Civil Engineering, allowed him the opportunity to become a specialist in Polish and Czechoslovakian languages, and then sent him back to OSU for a Master's in Political Science.

After leaving active duty, Terry spent 10 years in the Army Reserve. Outside of the Army Reserves, Terry worked as an Iron Worker until progressing to Civil Engineer in the post tensioning industry. Years later, he changed careers again, supplementing his skill set to work as an expert in Airfield/Runway Lighting, Landing Navigational Systems, and Airport Control Tower Systems. This career phase spanned 25 years and resulted in Terry being transferred all over the United States, the Caribbean, and the Middle East.

Upon “retirement,” Terry moved to Woodstock, Georgia, where he found part-time work at area golf courses to keep him busy. Never one to slow down, Terry also volunteered in his 80s at Northside Hospital Cherokee before finally retiring to live out his days at The Arbor at BridgeMill in Canton, Georgia.

Frances, his wife of 64 years, has been with him throughout this journey. With four kids in tow, she made it possible for Terry to reinvent himself, climb different career ladders, and see the world beyond his mid-western upbringing. His children may not have appreciated the many relocations at the time, but they have made the most of their varied life-experiences and educational opportunities, culminating in all four graduating from The Georgia Institute of Technology, an achievement that was a great source of pride for Terry.

Terry leaves behind a rich legacy of love, learning, and humor. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by those whose lives he touched. As his family grieves, they particularly want to thank Terry’s other “family members,” the staff at The Arbor at BridgeMill, for the wonderful care they gave him over the years. They also want to especially recognize Dr. Msimanga of Medical Associates of North Georgia, Dr. Chi of Atlanta Cancer Center, and all the medical personnel responsible for treating Terry at Northside Hospital Cherokee. Their dedication and empathy are very much appreciated.

Services to be provided by Leaf Cremation, with internment at a later date at The Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia.