Richard Planer

FUNERAL: A funeral service will be held at 9:30 AM on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at Ahavath Achim Synagogue, followed by a graveside service at Greenwood Cemetery.
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Meeting ID: 863 6501 3157
Passcode: aameeting!
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Meeting ID: 852 5825 9243
Passcode: 968554
OBITUARY:

Richard William Planer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on April 27, 1935, in Gastonia, North Carolina, and carried the values of warmth, kindness, and generosity from his small town upbringing throughout his life.

In 1960, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia, with his life partner and beloved wife, Barbara Cooper Planer, beginning a journey that would shape a beautiful family and a lifetime of friendships. Together, they raised three sons, Ira, Michael, and Billy, and later welcomed a daughter-in-law, Mindy Silver Planer, into the family. His five grandchildren, Austin Planer, Sara Planer, Hanna Planer, Baruch Levine, and Eliana Planer, were the absolute joy of his life. Nothing brought him more happiness than cheering them on, sharing stories, and watching them grow.

A lifelong lover of sports, he was happiest with a tennis racquet in hand or on the field coaching little league soccer or basketball or watching his grandchildren as they participated in their various activities. He believed deeply in showing up - for his children, his grandchildren, for his community, and for the organizations he loved. His commitment to service was felt across schools and teams where he volunteered through PTA and Booster Clubs, and especially at his cherished synagogue, Ahavath Achim, where he gave his time generously and where he and Barbara formed some of their most meaningful connections. Yet, all of this took a backseat to his joy of being at a Braves game with anyone willing to enjoy (or endure) his colorful side commentary.

He leaves behind a wide circle of friends who treasured his humor, his loyalty, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome and at ease. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews who were proud to call him family.

His legacy is one of kindness, devotion, and a life lived with a quiet purpose. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will continue to be a blessing to all who loved him.

Services will be held at Ahavath Achim Synagogue at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 5, followed by the burial at Greenwood Cemetery at 11:00 a.m.

Shiva will be held Thursday, February 5, at Ahavath Achim Synagogue from 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday, February 6, at The Piedmont at Buckhead Apartment 9106 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Donations in his memory can be made to Ahavath Achim Synagogue.