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BORN
1954
DIED
2017
Charles Rich Obituary
Charlie grew up in Charlotte attending Eastover Elementary, AG Junior High, and Myers Park High School. He graduated from UNC Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science in biology and a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry. He worked hard to pursue his dream and calling to be a physician. He attended Wake Forest Bowman Gray School of Medicine, graduating with honors (Alpha Omega Alpha) as a Medical Doctor in 1982, and then completed his internship and residency in 1985 at Emory University Medical System.
Charlie and Marsha moved to Charlotte from Atlanta in 1986 to rejoin his family and start their own. He joined Mecklenburg Medical Group (MMG) - Uptown. With commitment and compassion he served his patients for 31 years. He prided himself on moving the quality of healthcare in new directions and held leadership roles with MMG and Carolinas Healthcare System. He served as President of the Mecklenburg County Medical Society and Vice President of the North Carolina State Medical Society. He was often voted by his patients as 'top' or 'best doctor' in local and national publications. He was also the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award from his alma mater, UNC Charlotte. Charlie was a committed teacher and mentor to his peers, medical students, residents, and other health professionals in training. He loved his noble profession, and felt privileged to have the honor of being a physician and to help others through their life journey.
His probing intellect nourished his awe and reverence for the marvel of our world and the humans that have made it so extraordinary. Through a life of contemplation, he embraced a worldview based on the principles of ethical humanism and the epistemological foundation of science. Realizing the extraordinary era in which we live, he engaged in the advances of knowledge and was an avid reader of nonfiction and science.
His strongest love was for his family and his profession. He treasured nature, enjoyed hiking and camping, and loved the relaxed times with family and friends at the lake, mountains, and beach. He delighted in music and over the years played the guitar, piano, and saxophone.
In addition to his parents. Charlie was preceded in death by his sister Janet Thies, and brother-in-law and mentor Frank R. Thies Jr. He is survived by his, wife Marsha of Charlotte; his daughter Jennifer Clare Rich and his son Charles "Chad" Rich III; his sisters Lyttleton Hollowell and her husband Tom of Charlotte, and Boyce Gyger and her husband, Roland of Geneva, Switzerland; and his many beloved nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins.
A celebration of his life will be held at 4:00 pm on Sunday, September 24, at the Queens University Sports Complex at 2229 Tyvola Rd, Charlotte, NC 28210. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Foundation for the Carolinas for the benefit of the Charles B. Rich Jr., MD Charitable Fund for the purpose of advancing knowledge and education in the health sciences.
Charlie's devoted family will grieve his loss and cherish his memory forever.
Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Charles Rich
Carmie McCook
February 13, 2023
For some strange reason, my work colleague from our time together at Steelcase, popped into my mind. One quick Google search and I learn that her dear Charlie passes away in 2017. Marsha, this is Carmie. I'll try to find you but also email me. I gave my address on this site.
Roberto
October 1, 2022
I was reviewing a list of physicians for an application of some sort, and I came across this obituary. Dr. Rich was my family doctor when I was just starting in the real world after graduating college. One of the most compassionate and knowledgeable doctors I have encountered in my life. No question or problem was too small for Dr. Rich. I truly felt that he cared about his patients. May God bless his soul. It was an honor knowing him.
~ Roberto
John Burgess
September 16, 2022
Still miss Dr Rich. He was not only my doctor but my friend.
John Burgess
September 15, 2021
Can't believe it's been 4 years since we lost him. Dearly miss him being my doctor. He is truly missed by many.
Richard Ellis
July 19, 2021
One of my favorite people. I knew him for 25 years and he was always a good listener and fun to talk to. We used to kid each other and he always told me he would be around and always available. One of the nicest people I have ever known. All who knew him lost a remarkable friend. My sincerest condolences.
Karen Reilly Ellis
January 20, 2021
I moved from the area several years ago. Dr Rich is definitely the best doctor I ever had. Kind and so caring at the time I lost my husband suddenly. I am so very sorry to see this. My deepest sympathies. I was fortunate to have known him.
Karen Reilly Ellis
January 20, 2021
I moved from the area several years ago. Dr Rich is definitely the best doctor I ever had. Kind and so caring at the time I lost my husband suddenly. I am so very sorry to see this. My deepest sympathies. I was fortunate to have known him.
Beth Brown
May 22, 2018
As I plan my move back to Charlotte after being gone for 12 years, I was looking forward to renewing my medical relationship to Dr. Rich. At a very troubling time in my life, he put together a group of professionals who were able to help me develop the skills to move forward in a positive way. His impact on me and many others will never be forgotten.
J R Shull
April 24, 2018
I hope the pain goes away quickly for his family. My Doctor for 25 years. I drove an hour once or twice a year to him. I never thought of changing, and didn't seek second opinions. He used great analogies and we often discussed footwear. He liked his Ariat boots.
Annette Smith
March 29, 2018
STILL....heartbroken.
Derrick Goodwin
March 28, 2018
Dr Rich was a great man. He was my Dr for 20 years he helped me solve many of my medical problems. A very sincere person
Anthony Hodgson
November 16, 2017
I will always remember the first day I met Dr Rich. I was leaving on a long trip to China and called for a Sunday appointment after feeling under the weather as we say in England. He immediately knew what I needed, prescribed it and made me feel 100% better just by his joi De vivre. He was my only doctor from then on. After 20 years under his care I am saddened by his family's loss but honored to be under his magnificent care. He was truly a healer of the whole person and I'll miss him immensely.
Jo Crisp
November 3, 2017
I am shocked and saddened by the loss of Dr. Rich. He had been my doctor for 28 years. I was looking forward to my next visit. He was a great doctor and always took time to answer questions and would always ask about my son. He will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. May God bless you and comfort you.
Lynda McCorkle
October 17, 2017
I just cannot express the sorrow I am feeling to learn of Dr. Rich's passing away. He was not only my doctor but was my friend for 20+ years. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and his staff at this sad time.
Nancy Baird
October 17, 2017
Charles Rich was one of a kind. He shared his compassion and his expertise with me. I will miss him very much.
ileta teasley
October 16, 2017
I just learned about the sudden passing of Dr. Rich. He has been my primary care physician for over 20 years. I always felt I was getting the best treatment. He took the time to know me as a person. We have discussed everything from politics to our family. He offered his sincerest condolences and support when my son passed 4 years ago. He will truly be missed. I pray that you find comfort in knowing that he is respected and loved by many. My deepest condolences to your family.
Gary Suess
October 14, 2017
I was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of Dr. Richs sudden passing. It has been my great fortune to have him as my primary care physician for almost 20 years (four of which while living in New York and Greenville, SC.) His professionalism, acumen and skill were only exceeded by his authenticity, warmth, kindness, grace, and genuine care. I will miss him greatly as both a physician and a friend. I offer my deepest condolences to his family, co-workers, and friends.
Sincerely,
Gary Suess
Michele Seagraves
October 14, 2017
I am deeply saddened to learn of Dr Rich's death. He was my primary care physician for many years and was one of the best. Not only was he a knowledgable practitioner, he was truly interested in his patients. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and colleagues.
Amanda Newhouse
October 12, 2017
I was a patient of Dr. Rich's for 29 years and am devastated by the news. My condolences to his family and the staff of MMG. He will be missed by many.
Gail Kennedy
October 12, 2017
I just learned of Dr. Rich's passing and I am so saddened. He was my doctor for 30 years and helped me through some tough times. What a wonderful man and I will miss him.
Adam Berusch
October 10, 2017
My sincerest condolences to Dr. Rich's family, friends, and long list of grateful patents. I too am a patient of several years and just got back from the Chicago Marathon in good spirits; only to be deflated by the terrible news from MMG Uptown.
I will miss him and appreciate his sincere & professional dedication to his craft.
Jim Seagraves
October 10, 2017
There just aren't enough words to express the sadness I feel with Dr. Rich's passing. Like many others I was a longtime patient. I can honestly say that I never thought about leaving him for another doctor. Always on top of his game and engaging with his patients, it was a pleasure getting to know him and his love of family and life. We all will miss seeing him and his shiny Lucchese boots! God bless his family and R.I.P. Dr. Rich.
Michael Duncan
October 9, 2017
I'm just receiving the news about Dr. Rich. I am completely at a lost of words. I have been a patient for many years. I was looking forward to seeing him for my next appointment. My prayers and condolences goes out to the Rich family. May God continue to give you comfort and strength through this difficult time.
Rob Odum
October 9, 2017
I am just learning of Dr. Rich's passing - he was my primary care physician for many, many years. He was one of the best doctor's I've ever interacted with, and my thoughts go out to his family and friends.
Brack Rogers
October 9, 2017
I just learned of Dr. Rich's passing. I was a patient of his for 30 years. I am just stunned and have no words to express my sorrow. He was a joy to talk with every time I had the pleasure to be with him even just this past August 2017. His gentle spirit was so warm as my primary physician. I hope his family can know that his patients will miss him and he cannot be replaced. God bless you all in your time of grief.
Peggy Wesp
October 9, 2017
There are no words to say how much Charlie meant to me. He has been my physician for over 25 years. I confided in him many times and he and I had great political discussions during my appointments. His caring manner and frankness drew me to him the first time I saw him. This is a loss I can't replace. Sincere condolences to his family who have lost an extraordinary man.
Bob Woods
October 9, 2017
Sincere condolences to the Rich family. I am deeply saddened to learn of Dr. Rich's passing. Dr. Rich has been my primary care physician for 15+ years. His level of care and ability to focus on his patient's needs were exceptional. To the family, please find comfort knowing others are praying you. And, Dr. Rich made a positive impact on so many and will be missed dearly.
Juanita Cumberlander
October 7, 2017
Dr. Rich was my doctor for many years, sorry to hear of his passing. He will be truly miss.
Elayne Wilson
October 7, 2017
So sad to hear about Dr Rich passing. He was the best doctor ever. I am going to miss him!!
October 7, 2017
Dr. Rich was my doctor for over 30 years. What a gentleman and scholar as well as a tremendous Doctor. I will truly miss him. Respectfully, Mark Gutowitz
Thomas Dennard
October 7, 2017
Sincere condolences to the Rich family. Charlie was unique beyond description as a person and a healthcare provider. We grew old together for the entirety of his practice with MMG. I challenge all healthcare professionals to engage in their practice of medicine with the same level of humanity and informed discovery of their patients needs as Charlie. He was not just my doctor, he was my friend.
Ralph Beck
October 5, 2017
I learned today of Dr. Rich's passing. My physician for several years who pulled me through several tough patches. A wonderful, caring man who always took as much time as needed with me--and then some. I will miss him dearly. My heart goes out to his family.
Ashley Dixon
October 5, 2017
I am stunned. Dr. Charles Rich was a doctor who really cared and who really made me want to live a healthy life. I will never forget him.
Arlene Redding
October 4, 2017
So shocked to learn today of Dr. Rich's passing. He has been my primary care physician since the 80's when he and I both worked uptown. He was always a very caring and concerned doctor/friend each time I saw him, the last time being July for my annual physical. I shall truly miss him!! Much love and prayers for his family in the time to come.
Chris Sambach
October 4, 2017
Patient, gentle, kind and wicked smart. Doc always spent the last 10 minutes of our appointment teaching me how to use his favorite new apps. God doesn't make 'em like Charlie anymore - one of a kind.
Peter Skilton
October 3, 2017
Like many others posting here, I was a long time patient of Dr. Rich's and am so sorry to have learned of his passing. I so trusted his wisdom and advice because he so clearly cared deeply about his patients. He was conservative in his approach which I so appreciated - never hesitating to order one more test to make sure that the diagnosis was correct. I will miss him and pray that the family's and his colleagues' sadness will in time be replaced by warm memories of a wonderful man.
Nancy Chalmers
October 2, 2017
I worked for Dr. Rich when he first joined MMG. He was a great man and his patients were immediately impressed.He will be truly missed and never forgotten.Cherish your memories for as much as they hurt now, they will be survival in the future. Sharing your sorrow and sending my love
September 29, 2017
Dr Rich was also my primary care physician. Always very thorough and a great guy. I will really miss him. Clayton Watkins DVM
September 29, 2017
Irreplaceable...(needed Charlie here to proofread my spelling)
Kim Goode
September 28, 2017
I am saddened to hear of Dr. Rich's passing. I always thought highly of him and his passion for his work. He always made time for his patients no matter if the next patient waited 10 extra minutes. I always enjoyed talking with him and taking his advice. My mom and dad were also his patients and loved his bedside manner. My mom would make cakes for him and his staff. When she passed away he helped me through a very dark time in my life and for that I will always be grateful. When my father passed he gave me some advice and I will never forget him. He will truly be missed by everyone. May God bless all of you and wrap his loving arms around you.
September 28, 2017
irreplacable
Talaya A
September 27, 2017
Dr. Rich was my primary doctor for over 20 years. He truly cared about me as a patient and kept me well informed in the latest and greatest technology when it came to my health. I am truly going to miss him! Rest In Peace Dr. Rich. Sincerely, Talaya A.
September 27, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed Dr. Rich as my Primary care physician. he was such an easy going person. My parents thought highly of him as well. I am so sorry for your loss. No one will ever be able to replace him. I will miss u Dr. Rich. Janesta Charlotte, Nc
Cindy
September 25, 2017
I am shocked to hear of Dr. Rich's death. I began working with him at Carolinas Healthcare System when we were preparing to install our electronic health record. Charlie was always an avid champion of technology and spent many long hours working with the implementation team and his colleagues. He was always positive and always put his patients first. One of a kind and will be missed.
john allen
September 25, 2017
Charlie had been my primary doctor and friend since the early nineties. A great guy and good doctor!! I will miss him.
John Allen
Lisa
September 24, 2017
I chose Dr Rich as my Primary Care physician 20 years ago because as a pharmaceutical rep I was always so impressed by his advanced scientific knowledge and his compassion for his patients. A pioneer in mixing technology with medicine and creating top notch care while being mindful of costs to his patients. He spoke proudly of his family and especially his children's accomplishments during our visits. I am devistated by our loss of a wonderful man, friend, brother, father, husband and physician. Heaven has been blessed with an angel.
Nancy Mathis
September 24, 2017
Charlie was one of my dearest pals during our Myers Park days. He drove a huge old black car, and we loved piling in it and driving around Charlotte. A gentle, funny, wonderful friend who had immense intellectual curiosity and compassion. He was also a heck of a lot of fun. I moved away many years ago, and we had not seen each other for decades. But those were important times in our lives, and my most vivid -- and best --memories of high school will always have Charlie in them. Rest in peace, dear friend.
Bill Alleyne
September 24, 2017
He is good man in a better place. Proud to have called him a friend and partner for several years.
Rick Ellis
September 23, 2017
I am just in disbelief. I just saw hin a couple of weeks ago. We have lost a truly fantastic individual. If was our great fortune to have known him.
Andy Guion
September 23, 2017
Wow, shocking. I now live in Ashe county and my daughter sent me a text to let me know of Dr. Rich's death. He was always a picture of health so I am sure others were as shocked as I am. Great guy, great doctor and great boots.
Charles Fennell
September 22, 2017
My Doctor of 20 years who became my friend and confidant. He was that to so many people and will be missed not only by friends, colleagues and family, but also by his hoard of patients that loved his candor, knowledge and passion. My heart hurts for his loss. Rest In Heaven Dr. Rich
Thomas Graf
September 22, 2017
I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Rich's passing. He had been my primary care physician for 25 years, including years when I lived in Boston and Singapore. I never trusted anyone with my healthcare more so than Dr. Rich. I trusted him so much I would return to Charlotte for my annual physical exams, regardless of where I was living. Dr. Rich always made my health and well being his #1 priority. He never failed to provide the most thorough and complete care. Most of all, his kind and caring manner made me feel like I was a good friend, not simply a patient. Dr. Rich also cared about me personally, wanting to know what was happening in my career and personal life. As a patient I feel a deep sense of loss. I cannot imagine the loss felt by his family. My most sincere prayers are with you in the loss of a most remarkable man. May God bless you with much comfort and peace.
Matthew Ketcham
September 21, 2017
I am dismayed and in deep sorrow over the loss of such a fine man and friend of 47 years. We shared most of all the joy of reading. His voice and subtle laugh will forever remain in my heart.
Sven Bader
September 21, 2017
We have truly lost a man of incredible integrity, a genuine gentleman, a doctor of the highest caliber, and an intellectual powerhouse, may God enjoy Him as much as we have and soften the blow to all his Family...
September 21, 2017
Rita Brewer
James White
September 21, 2017
Charlie was a friend and a mentor years ago when I was considering going into medicine. I'll never forget the guidance and counsel he gave me back then. J.L. White,MD
John Burgess
September 21, 2017
I just learned of Dr. Rich's passing. I am in shock. What a wonderful person and my doctor for almost 30 years. He was the most compassionate and caring person I knew and he truly enjoyed being your physician. He would tell you what you needed to hear and show you what to do. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time. He will surely be missed and remembered. What an incredible caring person.
Craig Smith
September 21, 2017
Donna and I have had the privilege to know Dr. Rich for the past 24 years as our physician. We are so sorry to hear of his passing and our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Scott Smith
September 21, 2017
Dr. Rich was simply the epitome of what a doctor should be. He was my physician for 25 years and always made you feel
Iike you were the most important case he was seeing that day. He was curious about everything and genuinely interested in every patient's life outside of health. He was highly intellectual and knowledgeable about so many different subjects. This is a great loss for Mecklenburg County because he impacted so many lives!
September 21, 2017
I am so proud and glad to have had Dr. Rich as mine and Ron's doctor. We will truly miss him as he was so caring and fun to talk with. We send our prayers to his family. May God hold each of you in the palm of His Hand. Prayers also for the MMG staff and all who knew him. He will always remain Sweet in our Memories. Linda and Ron Whitener
Delores Wells
September 21, 2017
I have just learned of my dear Dr. Rich's passing, and my heart is filled with sadness. He was a good man and excellent doctor in whom I had total trust and confidence. I was privileged to be one of his patients for well over 20 years and was looking forward to my next visit. It was evident that Dr. Rich had sincere compassion for his patients and treated me like a friend. I shall always remember him and be grateful our paths crossed. May the Family find comfort and peace as you grieve the loss of your beloved husband, father and brother.
John Rudisill
September 21, 2017
Dr. Rich was my physician for over a decade. I am shocked at his passing. I will truly miss him.
Susan Causey
September 21, 2017
I just learned of Dr. Rich's passing. I've seen him several times a year since he started at MMG Uptown. I am in shock and know he will be missed by many. What a wonderful man.
Thomas Isom
September 21, 2017
Doctor Rich was My Husbands and My Phhsian for 25 yrs. He was an excellent Doctor and a good Friend. I remember his cowboy boots, we both discussed how well made they were. I teased him about trying to look like a teeny bopper.
We laughed. We will miss him.
Thomas and Joyce Isom
Brenda Shrake
September 21, 2017
Dr. Rich was my physician for 30 years and I'm truly going to miss him. My sincere condolences to his family during their time of grief.
Tom Watson
September 21, 2017
Charles Rich was my physician for 35 years. He was unfailing warm, meticulous and attentive. He listened carefully to me before responding. I could not describe a better doctor. I am deeply grieved by his passing.
Lekha Banerjee
September 21, 2017
Remarkable human being first, before of course being a very perceptive doctor. Huge loss for my family and more so for the community
Terri Beattie
September 21, 2017
In addition to being a wonderful physician, Charlie had a high intellect and passion for the pursuit of technology and its contribution to the enhancement of healthcare. I always appreciated his support and guidance in this pursuit.
SHirley C Floyd
September 21, 2017
It was my privilege to have Dr. Rich as my physician for more than 20+ years. I will miss him but I thank God for placing him in my life to take such excellent care of me. I was shocked and saddened at receiving word of his passing and I want to extend to his family and his medical family to remember him with fondness and admiration.
Annette Oliver Smith
September 21, 2017
I am heartsick to hear of this loss - for his family, his friends, colleagues and patients, our community. A gallant man with insight and wisdom beyond the medical realm - I benefited from his intellect in so many ways. I am grateful to have been his patient since 1991.
My profound regards and sympathy for all who cared for him.
Chris Ions
September 21, 2017
Dr Rich was my physician for the last 28 years. He was an outstanding practitioner and practice team leader. I am shocked and saddened at his loss. My commiserations to his family and his practice group. We will all miss him and remember him with fondness and admiration.
David Tinkler
September 20, 2017
It was my privilege to have Dr. Rich as my physician for almost 30 years. He was a remarkable man, a thoughtful and genuinely caring doctor who treated every patient with the utmost courtesy and respect. Although I generally saw him only for annual exams, I have fond memories of our discussions about our families, and his advice about health matters was always very helpful. In my own time of loss, he offered great comfort and sympathy. I was looking forward to continuing as his patient until such time as he chose to retire, and like so many others I was profoundly shocked and saddened to learn of his death. May his example inspire all of us.
Bess Forshaw
September 20, 2017
There are no words to explain how much we loved Charlie and how much we will miss him. He was and will remain a part of our family. Yes, we will grieve his loss and cherish his memory forever.
Brucie Harry
September 20, 2017
I will miss comparing brain books with Charlie at neighborhood get togethers. The last book he told me about (SAPIENS) was in March. I am so sad for his family, and for all who will miss him.
Brucie Harry
David Tinkler
September 20, 2017
I was my privilege to have Dr. Rich as my physician for almost 30 years. He was a remarkable man a thoughtful and genuinely caring doctor who treated every patient with the utmost courtesy and respect. Although I generally saw him only for annual exams, I have fond memories of our discussions about our families, and his advice about health matters was always very helpful. In my own time of loss, he offered great comfort and sympathy. I was looking forward to continuing as his patient until such time as he chose to retire, and like so many others I was profoundly shocked and saddened to learn of his death. May his example inspire all of us.
Shanica Alexander
September 20, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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