Cochran – Richard Dean "Rick" Kimmel age 71, died Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at his residence after a courageous battle with cancer. Memorial services will be held Sunday, February 23, 2020, at Trinity Episcopal Church at the corner of 5th & Cherry Streets in Cochran, Georgia at 3:30pm.

Rick is survived by his wife of 33 years, Regine Wiley Kimmel of Cochran, his children Laura (Carl) Copeland of Valdosta, Richard Kimmel of Athens, and grandchildren Julia and Ellie Copeland of Valdosta. Other surviving family are his brother Alan Kimmel of Panama City, Fl., his aunt Martha Spiva of Panama City, FL, and cousins Lee and Gary Spiva.

Rick, a native of Panama City, Fl., was the son of the late Daniel D. and Betty Sue Spiva Kimmel. He graduated from Bay High School in Panama City and Troy University in Alabama. Rick was a dedicated music educator for 36 years. He taught in Fitzgerald and Valdosta before he and Regine came to Cochran in 1987 as a band director team. Rick's professional music career spanned 51 years as a trumpet instrumentalist, educator, and band director. As a performer, he backed up Bob Hope and trombonist Urbie Green. Rick shared the stage with legendary jazz trumpeter Clark Terry. He performed with the dance band "The Top Hats" of Valdosta for over 20 years and for 23 years with "The Georgia Big Band." Rick was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Cochran and enjoyed playing there for many years. Rick also performed in the Cochran area for weddings, funerals, sacred and civic programs.

Rick will be remembered as a loving husband and father, a dedicated musician and educator, and a loyal friend to those who were close to him.

Flowers are welcomed as an expression of sympathy. Memorial contributions may be sent to The Landon Padgett Memorial Fund. Landon was an outstanding BCHS music student of whom Rick was very proud. Landon's memorial fund, among many other things, supports educational opportunities for Bleckley County students. https://www.landonpadgett.org/

The family is at 189 E. Lewis Street and will greet friends from 1:30 until 3:00 P.M. Sunday, February 23rd at Trinity Episcopal Church.