Richard Joseph

Cromie

Richard J. Cromie, 88, of Cumming, Georgia, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Born in Schuylerville, New York, to Martha and J. Leighton Cromie, Richard grew up in Schuylerville and attended Schuylerville High School. In addition to playing basketball, baseball, and tennis, he was an accomplished musician who performed multiple times in both the All-County and Tri-State Bands. Richard continued his education at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science. He also continued his musical pursuits, performing with both the Marching Band and the Crusader Dance Band. Richard found great joy in playing the clarinet and saxophone and was truly a gifted musician. He later earned a master’s degree in history and political science from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York.

Richard's long and impactful career in education began in Greenwich, New York, where he taught social studies and coached basketball for 7 years. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Suzanne Charland, also a teacher. They were married in January 1962. Following the births of their two sons, James in 1963 and Paul in 1965, the family moved to Middletown, New York. There, Richard dedicated 29 years to Middletown Junior High School, serving as a social studies teacher, Social Studies Department Chairperson, Summer School Assistant Principal, and Assistant Varsity baseball coach.

In addition to his career in education, Richard worked weekends as a tour guide at Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville, New York for 26 years. Upon retirement, Richard and Suzanne moved to the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia, to be closer to their sons and their growing families. Richard cherished his family and treasured hosting gatherings with Suzanne for family and friends, as well as their many trips to the coast of Maine. A pillar of strength and unwavering support, Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a man of deep faith whose kindness, humor, wisdom, and steady presence touched the lives of all who knew him. To his family, he was perfectly imperfect and deeply loved.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Martha and J. Leighton Cromie, and his sister, Ann VanDerwerker. He is survived by his loving wife of more than 64 years, Suzanne Cromie; sons James (Eileen) Cromie and Paul (Cheri) Cromie; grandchildren Sara Cromie, Skyler Cromie, Lauren Couillou (Josh), Megan Angel (Manny), Cassidy Houchins and Cayde Cromie; great-grandchildren Georgia Angel, Lorenzo Angel, and Baby Couillou, expected in early 2027; niece Amy Gilmore (daughter Mattie); and nephew Bill VanDerwerker (wife Stacey and sons Ben and Will).

Richard's legacy of faith, education, music, friendship, and family will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

The family will receive guests on Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at Ingram Funeral Home in Cumming, GA. A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Saint Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church in Cumming, GA followed by columbarium placement and a reception for family and friends.