- Date Of Birth: August 13, 1938
- Date Of Death: February 19, 2022
- State: Illinois
Richard Noel Rich, 83, of Centralia, passed away, Saturday, February 19, 2022 at Centralia Manor.
He was born the son of Noel Rich and Esther (Parmley) Rich on August 13th, 1938 in Centralia. Richard married Barbara J. Dilg of Junction City in 1958 and they later divorced. He married Jennette Eells in 1989 and they later divorced.
Richard is survived by his daughter: Tanga Coffey and husband Brad of Centralia and son: Tony Rich of Centralia; a step Son: Jeff Eells and wife Christy of Winterville, NC; daughter-in-law: Michelle Eells of Ithaca, NY; three grandchildren: Jordan Coffey, Tyson Coffey and wife Karlie and Bethany Essner and husband Michael all of Centralia; three step Grandchildren: Kayla Eells, Cole Eells and Cade Eells all of Ithaca, NY; great-grandson: Shepherd Coffey; sister: Elizabeth Risinger of Owensboro Ky,; several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, step-son: Greg Eells, brother; Marlin Rich, sister: Mary Kathleen Bryant, brother-in-law: Steve Bryant, and brother-in-law Bill Risinger.
Richard graduated from Centralia High School in 1956, he then attended Centralia Jr. College in 1965, he graduated from Eastern IL University with his Bachelors Degree in 1968, and in 1970 he graduated from Eastern IL University with his Masters. Richard was in education for 34 years. He was a Counselor and Dean of Students at Centralia High School for 20 years. He was the Principal at Sandoval Jr. High and High School for 4 years. He was employed with Patoka High School as a Counselor for 10 years. He was also a member of the board of trustees of Kaskaskia College.
Richard was deeply involved with Central City Baptist and served in several Leadership Positions in the church. He enjoyed serving his Lord and Savior in any way he could.
