Cecil W. Rich, a devoted family man and decorated U.S. Army Veteran, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, at Christus Trinity Mother Frances, Sulphur Springs, reuniting in eternity with his beloved wife, Ursula. Cecil honorably served 20 years in the U.S. Army, completing two tours in Vietnam. His courage in battle earned him three Bronze Stars and an Air Medal. He carried his patriotism and discipline with him throughout his life, serving as a role model for his children and grandchildren. Cecil was a very proud member of the Hopkins County Marine Corps League.
He is survived by his sons Jim Rich (US Army Combat Veteran) and wife Ellen, Mark Rich (US Air Force Veteran) and wife Christi and Mike Rich (US Army Veteran) and wife Robin; his daughter Makaya McKinney; and his grandchildren Chris Rich and wife Jana, Tiffany Potter and husband Jeremy, Drew Rich, Staphanie VanCuren and husband Erik, Jennifer Beyer and husband Jodie and April Rich. Cecil was also a proud great-grandfather to Hunter Rich, Joseph and Balin Durst, Hunter and Halee Potter, Aaron and Elisabeth VanCuren, Braidyn, Garrett, and Lillee Beyer and Trayton and Talon McKinney, He is remembered with love by his brother Don Rich and wife Beth; his sister, Debbie Maxwell, and husband Dee; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Johnston and Edith Rohr; brother-in-law, Hans Kruger (Birgit) as well as a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
Cecil was preceded in death by his wife, Ursula; his parents, Cecil, and Lucille Rich; and his brother, Alan Rich, wife Sharon and son Roger.
A life of honor, a legacy of service. His strength and unwavering dedication to his family and country will never be forgotten.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” – 2 Timothy 4:7
Funeral Service for Cecil will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at First Baptist Church Spence Chapel with Dr. Jeff Gravens officiating. Chris Rich, Drew Rich, Joseph Rich, Hunter Rich, Erik VanCuren, Jeremy Potter, Hunter Potter, and Jodie Beyer will be serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Trayton McKinney, Talon McKinney, Garrett Beyer, and Aaron VanCuren. Visitation will be from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 15, 2025, at West Oaks Funeral Home. Military Honors will be rendered in tribute to his service at 2:15 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025, at DFW National Cemetery open to all who wish to come.
In Lieu of flower the family ask that you make donations to the Hopkins County Marine Corp League, Hopkins County Military Coalition, or DFW National Cemetery.
