Richard Elliott McNatt, beloved husband, father, and grandfather “Papa,” left this earth on March 11, 2026.

Rick was born on September 5, 1968, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Marilyn and Ronald McNatt. He spent his childhood and teen years in Pittsburgh until leaving for college.

After just a couple of weeks at Grove City College, he met his future bride, Jody. A mutual friend introduced them in the college cafeteria, and Rick always said he was pretty much smitten right from the start. Rick and Jody dated through college and married on a perfect August evening at their college chapel in 1990, just before the start of their senior year. In their 35 years of marriage, God blessed them with five children. Emily Regan (Austin), Tyler Elliott (Brooke), Sarah Elizabeth, Connor James and Bella Grace. Rick and Jody are also the proud Papa and Birdy of two precious grandchildren, Mimi Grace and Fields Elliott.

Growing up in Pittsburgh, Rick played several sports, especially excelling in basketball with his 6’4” frame. His fondest childhood memories included fishing with his grandpa, attending Pittsburgh Penguins hockey games with his dad, and summer vacations spent at the beach in Stone Harbor, New Jersey. For many summers, he was also a camper at Summer’s Best Two Weeks in Somerset, PA. It was at this Christian summer camp that Rick gave his life to the Lord. He claimed his life verse 1 Corinthians 15:58. While in college, he and Jody both worked as camp counselors at SB2Ws.

At Grove City College, Rick was a student government officer, a resident adviser, and involved in the Alpha Omega housing group. With a wonderful friend group, these were some of the best years of his life playing intramural sports and attending classes (in that order). He received his BA in Sociology and Business and graduated alongside his bride in 1991.

After college, Rick and Jody spent their early years of marriage in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, where Emily and Tyler were born. A job in the healthcare industry took them to Atlanta, Georgia, in 1998, and—except for two years in Minnesota— Atlanta has been home to them and their five children since.

Rick had a wonderful career as a healthcare executive for over 30 years. He poured into his work and was highly admired, respected, and loved by his colleagues. But even with his successful and demanding career, his first love was always his family. He never lost sight of his purpose and passion for them. His greatest joy was time with his kids. He shared with them his love for the ocean, fishing, and all sports. He coached them in soccer and baseball and was, without fail, always in the audience cheering and clapping for them whatever competition or performance.

As a lifelong athlete, Rick exemplified discipline and training. He spent many years training for and competing in triathlons and marathons. When the kids were old enough, he would often take them on “family runs.” But his happiest place with his family was either at the beach or fishing along some lake or stream.

Rick also loved to plan and take his family on trips. It gave him much joy to create itineraries and lead his crew on grand adventures. He was always the leader. As his family spent many hours reflecting this week, they found themselves repeating the words Protector and Provider when describing their dad and husband. He was so faithfully both. Out of his great love for them, he took care of everyone and everything. All the time. He was their rock. He beautifully and consistently modeled the love and care of our Heavenly Father. But, more than anything, it was Rick’s love for his Savior which most impacted them. He pointed his family to the Lord through his actions and his words. Knowing his children are all followers of Jesus was the greatest joy of his life. “I have no greater joy than to hear my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 1:4.

In recent years, as the children emptied from the nest, Rick’s favorite thing was time all together. Whether at the beach or just in the backyard. Whether playing a game or playing with the grandchildren, he loved nothing more than when all eleven of them were under one roof. Rick created a family filled with so much fun, laughter, and love. He leaves behind a rich and profound legacy.

For many years, hanging on his home office wall, surrounded by family photos, has been the famous Mother Teresa quote: “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” This is what he always did. This is who Rick always was.

Rick is survived by his wife of 35 years, Jody, his children Emily, Austin, Tyler, Brooke, Sarah, Connor, Bella Grace, and his grandchildren, Mimi and Fields. He is also survived by his sister, Jennifer McNatt, along with his brother and sister-in-laws and multiple nieces and nephews. He loved them all dearly.