George Edward Rich Jr., otherwise known as Coach Rich, 77, of Etowah, TN passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2023.

Eddie was a long-time educator and coach in Cocke County and McMinn Central. He was a well-known principal at Mountain View Elementary School. In his free time, he loved to take care of his yard and do any type of landscaping. He was an outstanding athlete at Carson Newman University, playing football and baseball. While at Carson-Newman, he was on the National Championship Baseball Team. Eddie was an avid U.T. fan and loved to cheer on all sports. He was a great role-model and mentor to several people.  He was a longtime member of North Etowah Baptist Church.

He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Elsie Rich; sisters, Louise Wild, Shirley Bryan, Kate Harvel.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Linda Rich; son and daughter-in-law, Todd and Amy Rich; grandson and spouse, Cameron and Madi Rich; two beloved great-grandchildren, Julius and Jesse Rich; sisters, Irene Gray and Vicki White; brother, Bill Rich.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to North Etowah Baptist Church, 231 PA Ave., Etowah, TN 37331.

Funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m., Monday, January 23, 2023 at North Etowah Baptist Church with Dennis Bordwine and long-time best friend, Dale Chrisman, officiating.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday, prior to the service at the church.

Family and friends will assemble at Green Hill Cemetery, Tuesday, January 24th for the 11:00 a.m. committal service.