Bud Rich

WILSON COUNTY,TN-Gaylord A. "Bud" Rich, a beloved missionary and pastor, passed away on October 22, 2024 in Watertown, Tennessee, at the age of 95. Born on January 15, 1929, in Council Bluff, Iowa. Bud led a life rich with faith, family, and service.

Bud dedicated his career to serving communities in Iowa, Michigan (on two occasions), Hawaii, and Guam, as a caring and compassionate missionary and pastor. His ability to connect with others and his unwavering optimism made him a source of inspiration to many. He was known not only for his preaching but also for his vibrant personality, full of life, wit, and intelligence. Bud was a man of tremendous influence and integrity, deeply loved by all who knew him.

An educated individual, Bud graduated from Thomas Jefferson High in Iowa before earning a bachelor's degree from Olivet Nazarene College in Bourbonnais, Illinois. His commitment to service was evident not only in his pastoral work but also having served as Chaplain in the Civil Air Patrol United States Air Force Auxiliary.

Bud found joy in creativity, becoming a talented wood artist over the years. He was handy and crafted countless nameplates for friends and family, leaving a lasting mark of his artistry within their homes.

He was preceded in death by parents, Gaylord A. Rich and Ethyl Grim Rich; his wife of 31 years, Jean Bos Rich; and by a sister, Darlene James.

Bud's legacy straddles the lives of many. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Mary Horn Rich; sons, Bruce (Mary) Rich and Steven Rich; daughters, Nancy (Tim) Smith and Gail (Doug) Philip, and grandchildren, including Melissa (Josh) Macharia; Aimee (Jimmy) Obotte; Jeanne (Derek) Bowshier; Nicole Rich; Kelsey Rich; Zachary Rich; Buddy (Elana) Rich; Stephen Philip and William Liam Rich and nine great-grandchildren. His family also includes 3 step children: Kathy (McGraw) Paul, Larry (Rhonda) McGraw and Debbie (Bruce) Hinkle; 8 step-grandchildren, including Laura Paul, Hesse (Cobi) McGraw, Jenna (Aaron) Stapleton, Krissa (J.J) Johansen, Dr. Nathan (Megan) Hinkle, Michelle (Joe) Kuehner, Johnathan Hinkle, and Rachel (Robert) Foy, along with eleven great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 11:00am at Lebanon First Church of the Nazarene. Bud's family will receive friends Saturday from 10am until time of service. Pastor Gary Wilson will officiate.

Bud Rich will be remembered for his infectious cheerfulness, his unwavering love for his family, and the countless lives he touched throughout his extraordinary journey. He leaves a profound void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege to know him.

Memorial contributions are suggested to be made to the Missions Alabaster Building Program at Lebanon First Church of the Nazarene, 812 N. Cumberland Street Lebanon, Tn 37087.

Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. Share memories and condolences at www.hhhfunerals.com.