Ricki Keith "Rick" Atha

Ricki Keith "Rick" Atha, age 69, passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Baptist Easley Hospital. Born on March 12, 1956, in Gwinnett County, Georgia, Rick was the cherished son of the late Nathan Jack Atha and Hattie Mae Bennett Atha. He grew up in Sugar Hill, where he developed a love for sports, playing baseball, basketball, and football throughout high school. A proud graduate of North Gwinnett High School, Class of 1974, Rick went on to earn his associate's degree from Gainesville College. Rick's career reflected his deep passion for music and sound. He served as a sound engineer for the bands Riff Raff, Topper, and many others, later working as a recording engineer at Digitrax Studio. With his own company, Atha Design, he specialized in audio design and installation, leaving his mark on countless projects through his expertise and creativity. Beyond his professional life, Rick had a lifelong love for dogs. Over the years, his faithful companions brought him great joy, none more so than his beloved Dachshund, Longmire, who will continue to be cared for by Rick's dear friend, Lee. Survivors include his sister, Rhonda A. Powell, and brother, Rusty "Boo" Atha. Rick was predeceased by his parents, Nathan Jack Atha and Hattie Mae Bennett Atha. The family will host a memorial service celebrating Rick's life on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 4:00 PM in the Chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home, 4400 S. Lee St, Buford, GA 30518. Friends and loved ones are invited to gather for visitation one hour prior to the service, beginning at 3:00 PM. Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Atha family.