FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — Loved ones and friends gathered Sunday evening to remember one of the victims killed last week in a school shooting in Barrow County.
A Celebration of Life Ceremony for Apalachee High School Teacher Richard "Ricky" William Aspinwall II was held at Flowery Branch High School's football stadium. The beloved teacher and football coach tragically lost his life on Sept. 4.
Aspinwall, 39, was one of four victims killed in the recent shooting at Apalachee High School. The devoted math teacher and assistant football coach leaves behind a legacy of service to his students and players, as well as an unwavering love for his family, his obituary reads in part.
Born in Riverdale, Georgia, Aspinwall graduated from Rome High School and attended Valdosta State University, where he majored in accounting. He later earned his master’s degree and a specialist degree in education. 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.
Aspinwall is survived by his wife, Shayna, and their two daughters, Addison and Emery. Described as the ultimate “girl dad,” he took immense pride in his role as a father and was deeply involved in his daughters’ lives.
The Celebration of Life allowed the community to reflect on the positive impact Aspinwall had on his students and fellow educators. Funeral services will be held privately, but Sunday's event is open to the public, allowing friends, family, and the community to pay their respects.
The shooting also claimed the lives of fellow math teacher Cristina Irimie and two students, Christian Angulo and Mason Schermerhorn. Nine others were hospitalized with injuries. The suspect in the shooting, a 14-year-old student, has been charged with four counts of murder, with additional charges expected.