WILMINGTON — James Edwin Rich, known to many as Jim or Jimmy, passed away unexpectedly at his home on February 18, 2025.
Born on December 18, 1946, at James Walker Memorial Hospital in Wilmington, NC, Jim was lovingly welcomed into the family of John Thomas Rich, Jr. and Mary Lucille Rich on December 24, 1946.
Jim lived a life defined by service, dedication, and love. He was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, teacher, coach, decorated veteran, friend, and hero. A proud alumnus of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (BA, 1973) and New Hanover High School, he later earned a Master of Arts in Education/Physical Education from East Carolina University in 1984.
His education was briefly interrupted when he chose to enlist in the United States Army rather than wait to be drafted. His nearly four years of active service included a 364-day “short trip to Southeast Asia” with the 174th Assault Helicopter Company. During this time, Jim earned numerous commendations, including the Purple Heart, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, and Silver Star. Though he rarely spoke of his heroism, his patriotism and deep bond with his fellow servicemen remained a cornerstone of his life.
Following his military service, Jim discovered his true calling—serving the special needs community. As an Adapted Physical Education teacher and coach in New Hanover County Schools, a consultant with the NC Department of Public Instruction, and an instructor at the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Education, he was a passionate advocate for children with special needs. He conducted over eight hundred workshops and presentations nationwide on physical education and special education, leaving an indelible mark on the field and on the lives of countless students and colleagues.
Jim loved fiercely, deeply, and with immense joy. He was a dedicated father for 55 years and, for the past 26 years, he shared his life with his devoted and loving wife, Mary, whom he truly adored.
In 2018, Jim was blessed to discover his birth family. Though he missed meeting his biological mother, Elsie Yosia Kelly, by just two years, he gained four half-siblings and an extended family that he cherished deeply.
Jim Rich was larger than life, with a heart to match. His integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, J.T. and Lucille Rich, and his first wife, Linda Albertson Rich (m. 1967, d. 1996).
Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Mary Ruth Bishop Rich;
His son, Todd Rich and wife Lisa of King, NC;
His daughter, Tonya Rich Henderson and husband Michael of Beulaville, NC;
His treasured grandchildren, Austin Smith and Hayden Henderson;
His sister, Catherine Barbour;
His half-siblings: Susan Petsko, Paul Kelly (wife Cathy), Debbie Smith (husband Mike), and David Kelly (wife Catherine);
Numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family;
And his lifelong friend, Larry Boylan, who stood by him through every adventure.
Jim’s life was one of service, love, and dedication. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Jim Rich’s Celebration of Life | March 03, 2025
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