Richard "Rich" Earl Garrett

Richard (Rich) Earl Garrett, 53, of Acworth, Georgia passed away on Sunday, June 16, 2024. He was born June 20, 1970 in Statesville, NC. He was predeceased by his parents Earl and Cora Lee Garrett (nee McFall) and a brother-in-law, Howard Klop. He is survived by his loving wife Anne (nee Wade), and his son Everett, his greatest joy. He was loved by his siblings, sisters Cindy (Jim) Gavins of Vancleave, MS, Lisa Klop of Richmond, VA, Tammy (Michael) Fields, of Raleigh, NC, and brother Macky Garrett of County Line, GA. He is also survived by his beloved niece and nephews.

He was a graduate of NC State University in 1993 with a degree in computer science. He loved watching sports especially the Wolfpack, Boston Celtics, Philadelphia Eagles, Atlanta United, and Chelsea FC. He especially enjoyed cheering Everett from the sidelines as he played club and high school soccer. He was a very proud soccer dad! He was also “dad” to his rescues Ellie, Kipper, and Lottie.

He was a superb grill master, and he could fix or build anything by just watching a YouTube video! He loved to travel both for business and pleasure and had the extraordinary opportunity to visit the countries of Japan, England, Ireland, China, Germany, and France. He spent a good deal of time in Limerick, Ireland and made friends with many locals, even taking American sports gifts back for hotel staff. He also enjoyed visiting London and in 2023 he was able to experience watching Chelsea FC play on their home pitch with his son.

Many would consider Rich quiet (except when a referee makes a bad call), but those who knew him best saw his extraordinary sense of humor and how much he delighted in making people laugh. Rich would want to be remembered as a fun-loving friend and devoted family man, so think of him the next time you see a red chair on the sidelines at a local soccer pitch. In soccer, there is a chant that is used when witnessing an exceptional performance. Rich, this is for you: Olé, Olé, Olé!