The Flowery Branch community came together Sunday evening to honor the life of Richard “Ricky” William Aspinwall, an Apalachee High School teacher and coach who was tragically killed in a school shooting on Wednesday.
Held at Flowery Branch High School’s football stadium, the memorial was a heartfelt celebration of a man who touched countless lives both on and off the field.
💔 Why It Matters: Richard Aspinwall wasn’t just a teacher or a coach—he was a mentor, a father, and a pillar of strength for students and colleagues alike. His sudden loss has left a hole in not just the Winder community, but in other communities he lived and worked in including Rome and Gwinnett County.
🌅 What Happened: The memorial service was filled with emotional tributes from family, friends, and students, all reflecting on the profound impact Aspinwall had on their lives.
- Former students and players shared stories of how “Coach A” always pushed them to be their best, both in the classroom and on the field.
- His wife, Shayna, and their two daughters, Addison and Emery, were surrounded by love as speakers emphasized Aspinwall’s devotion to his family.
- The football stadium was packed with those who knew him well, many wearing jerseys or school colors in his honor.
🏈 Between the Lines: Aspinwall wasn’t just a figure of authority—he was a man who genuinely cared for everyone he worked with.
- His colleagues recalled a teacher who made learning fun while pushing his students to excel in math, a subject many found daunting without his support.
- His players described a coach who was more concerned with their character and well-being than just winning games.
💡 Catch Up Quick: Aspinwall, 39, was one of four victims in the September 4 shooting at Apalachee High School, which also claimed the lives of fellow teacher Cristina Irimie and two students. 14-year-old Colt Gray has been charged with four counts of murder.
👨👩👧 The Big Picture: Beyond his roles as a teacher and coach, Aspinwall was deeply committed to his family. Described as the ultimate “girl dad,” he cherished his time with his daughters, attending every event and embracing his role with pride. His life was one of service and love, qualities that will continue to inspire those who knew him, even in his absence.
The public gathering on Sunday wasn’t just about mourning—it was about celebrating a life well-lived, a man who poured everything into his work, his family, and his community. His loss leaves a void, but the stories shared that evening make it clear that his legacy will endure in the hearts of all he touched.