Survivors include his wife, Jackie Donnelly; daughters, Misti Barnes (Scott), Jennifer Donnelly, and Kristen Donnelly; step daughter, Amanda Richardson; step sons, James Richardson, Nik Richardson (Laura) and Matthew Richardson(Katie); sister, Becky McIntire, (Terry); brother, Mike Donnelly (Lorraine); grandchildren,
Katelyn Barnes, Jacoby Donnelly, Ever Richardson, John Richardson, Noel Richardson, Maddie Hensley, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.
Preceding him in death are his parents and sister, Sharon Kay Donnelly.
Funeral Services will be held Friday, November 13, 2020 at 3:00 PM from the chapel of Sunset Funeral Home with Rev. Keith Pugh officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.
Serving as pallbearers are Patrick Donnelly, John Donnelly, David Luster, Jack Luster, Jacoby Donnelly and James Richardson. Honorary pallbearers are Dr. John Waites, Dr. Gene Mangieri, Joey Donnelly, Randy Lubbert, Danny Thornton, Craig Brasfield, Keith Ginwright, and Jim Walter Resources employees.
Rich retired from Jim Walter Resources after more than 40 years. He began his career as a miner and worked his way up through the company retiring as President of the company. He served on the Board of Directors for Easter Seals and was a longtime sponsor of the Alabama Blues Project. Under his tough exterior, Richard had a heart of gold. He was extremely generous and loved surprising other people. He was an avid Alabama football fan and a staunch Republican with very strong beliefs.
Rich lived each day of his life for his precious grandchildren, and he will be greatly missed by all
of those who loved him.