FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Loved ones and friends gathered Sunday evening to remember a man described as an achiever, someone who loved his family, and a tremendous coach to his players.
A Celebration of Life Ceremony for Apalachee High School Teacher Richard "Ricky" William Aspinwall was held at Flowery Branch High School's football stadium, where his wife Shayna teaches. The beloved educator and football coach tragically lost his life on Sept. 4 at Apalachee High along with three others during a shooting. Those closest to him said he died protecting his students.
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Throughout the evening, music was dedicated to Aspiwall. The family entered to "Sail" by Awolnation. Rev. Matt Lewis then said a prayer.
"God, we confess that we don't want to be here right now. God, we confess that our hearts hurt," Lewis said.
Several coaches who knew Aspinwall over the years spoke to the crowd to share fond memories during the ceremony. According to an online obituary, his teaching career spanned multiple schools, including Haralson County High School, Mountain View High School, and Apalachee High School, where he was known as “Coach A” to his players.
A coach who knew him during his Mountain View days, Nick Bach, described him as "the best." He shared a compassionate message.
"Every time I think I am out of tears, they keep coming back," he said, reflecting on Aspinwall.
"We had some great moments, a lot of big wins; fun times on and off the field," he said. "Ricky was always passionate about the success of those around him. He didn't want the glory at all. He would do anything for the team."
Derek Tiller said he coached football with him previously at Mountain View High School. He shared that the two had become close over the last few years. And during an emotional moment, he shared that he would still be there for Aspinwall's family.
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"I want you to understand this: whether it's six months from now, five years from now, 20 years from now, I'll be there for your family in whatever capacity I need to be," he said. "And the reason why is because I know if the roles were reversed, Ricky would do the exact same thing for my family."
His fellow coaches described Coach A's character.
"The three Ds: the desire to do something, the determination to do it, and then had the discipline to do it," one colleague said.
Dijon Joseph said he played for Aspinwall at Mountain View a few years ago. Aspinwall coached there for a decade.
"He was that person that was not just a coach but that friend, that next father figure that you could always go to," Joseph said.
Defensive Coordinator Coach Garrett said that Aspinwall spent his entire life serving others.
During the service, speakers said Aspinwall has been promoted to the newest assistant coach on God's team.
"There is no greater love than to lay down your life for another," Coach Matt Tanner said.
There were moments when some in the crowd wiped away tears of sadness during the service, but during one moment of the service, the crowd cheered for Aspinwall -- just like they would during a football game.
In general, the Celebration of Life allowed the community to reflect on the positive impact Aspinwall had on his students and fellow educators, as the funeral services will be held privately. He is survived by his wife, Shayna, and children Addison and Emery.
The family played another song in his memory: "Save You a Seat" by Alex Warren. The lyrics said: "Just like a memory, you never left me. You just left too soon."
And just like the song, although Aspinwall may no longer physically be with his loved ones, his spirit and legacy will forever live on in everyone he encountered throughout his life.