Richard Martin Suess
Richard Martin Suess
Richard Martin Suess
1941-2026
Mr. Richard Martin Suess, age 84, of McDonough, Georgia, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026. He was born on September 19, 1941, the son of the late Martin and Lina Roush Suess. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his son, Richard Todd Suess.
Rick, as he was commonly called, was a man known for his steady leadership, generous spirit, and deep love for people. He was the kind of man who never needed recognition to do what was right, yet his life left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Rick dedicated much of his professional life to the food production industry, retiring in 2005 as Plant Manager from Ready Pac Foods, a role he carried with pride and unwavering commitment. Prior to that, he co-owned Maryville Packing Company, where his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic were evident; he also served as Plant Manager for Dixon Tom-A-Toe Produce. Mr. Suess was a true leader, not just in title, but in the way he treated people with fairness, humility, and respect.
He was a faithful member of McDonough First United Methodist Church. His commitment to serve people extended beyond the church walls as a proud member of Masonic Lodge 470 and the Moila Shriners, where he found brotherhood and purpose in serving others. Perhaps one of his most remarkable acts of generosity was his lifelong dedication to blood donation, giving over 130 pints to help save countless lives, a testament to the quiet, selfless way he lived each day.
Rick found joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life. He was an avid football fan and a loyal supporter of the Kansas City Chiefs, and he especially looked forward to the excitement of the Fiesta Bowl each year. He enjoyed walking, tending to his yard, and spending peaceful moments bird watching. He loved going out to eat, traveling to the beach, and soaking in life’s everyday experiences. Above all, he loved people. He had a special place in his heart for children, and his kindness and generosity extended to everyone he encountered.
On January 20, 1963, Rick married the love of his life, Mary Lee Bristow Suess. Together, they built a life rooted in love and were blessed with a wonderful family. In addition to his wife, he leaves behind his children, Mark (Carrie) Suess of Liberty, Missouri, Kim Suess of Overland Park, Kansas, and Heidi (Scott) Davis of Newnan, Georgia; grandchildren, Skylar (Cody) Cope, Karson Davis, and Austin Suess; a great-granddaughter, Finlee Cope; as well as several extended family members and a host of friends.
The family will hold a service to honor Rick’s life on Friday, March 27, 2026, beginning 1:00 p.m. at their church, McDonough First United Methodist Church, 151 Macon St, McDonough, GA 30253. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made in Rick’s honor to McDonough First United Methodist Church, by visiting https://www.mcdonoughfumc.org/giving, or to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, by visiting https://donate.shrinerschildrens.org. Those who wish may sign the online guest registry at www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com. Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors, 770-914-1414.
