Richard McAllister Pfluger

Palm City - Richard McAllister Pfluger, affectionately known as "Coach," died unexpectedly on February 22nd surrounded by his family. Rich lived a life that was a testament to his profound love for family and the joy of coaching and teaching. Born on March 17, 1959, Rich grew up in Maplewood, New Jersey, and cherished summers by the sea in Lavallette, New Jersey.

A proud alumnus of Seton Hall Prep and Georgetown University, Rich began his career in Boston's mortgage industry. This experience served as a prelude to his true calling in education. His passion for the English language was equaled only by his enthusiasm for imparting that love to others. When Rich chose to leave the corporate world to teach, he embarked on a rich journey filled with inspiring young minds and shaping futures.

In 1996, a twist of fate brought him together with Holly, his beloved wife of 26 years, with whom he raised two wonderful sons, the lights of his life. By the early 2000s, Rich had found his place not only in the classroom but also on the sports field. His 2008 move to Palm City, Florida, allowed him to further expand his coaching influence, nurturing talent in baseball, football, golf, and girl's lacrosse. Rich taught and coached at many schools in Martin County, managed Palm Cove Golf Club, and most recently, contributed to the golf community he loved by working part-time at Sailfish Sands Golf Club.

For Rich, coaching was his passion. He found joy in every game, every practice, and every mentoring moment. His happiest times were spent cheering on his sons as they excelled in sports, giving him much pride and pleasure. Rich was an avid golfer and loved doing the New York Times crossword puzzle and beating everyone at trivia.

Rich leaves behind a legacy of love and commitment. He is survived by his wife, Holly Taylor Pfluger, his cherished sons, Edward Taylor Pfluger and Richard August Pfluger II, his daughter Kimberly, his mother, Maureen McAllister Pfluger, and his loving siblings and their families. He is preceded in death by his father, Richard August Pfluger, and his beautiful niece, Marielle Kathleen Bakri. Rich touched countless lives, not only as a coach and teacher but also as a friend and role model.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lady Lax Club, Inc., a non-profit organization. Its sole purpose is to enrich, improve, develop, and support girls' lacrosse in Jensen Beach, Florida. Lady Lax, Inc. 2696 SE Willoughby Blvd. Stuart, Fl 34994.

Celebration of Life, 5/18, 1-4PM at Indian RiverSide Park (Frances Langford Dockside Pavilion Banquet Room), 1707 NE Indian River Drive, Jensen Beach, FL 34957

Funeral Mass, 5/19, 10AM at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 1454 SW Mapp Rd, Palm City, FL 34990