Rich Wharton, 69, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, passed away on September 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on July 12, 1956, Rich was the son of the late J.G. and Lena Wharton. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 21 years, a career marked by discipline, dedication, and deep patriotism. After retiring from the military, he continued to serve his community through work in corrections and logistics.  Rich met the love of his life, Tiffany Wharton in 1994 and married her in 1996. Together, they built a strong and supportive home filled with love, laughter, and family. He was a devoted father to Eric Wharton (Elise), Kristen Brimer (Chris), and Brittney Wharton (David), and a proud grandfather to Callie Brimer.  He is also survived by his loving sisters, Evelyn Tucker and Johnnie Wharton, and nephews Mike and Toby Brown, along with a great nephew Russ Brown, they all held a special place in his heart.  Rich had a lifelong passion for health and fitness. He was a well-known figure in the powerlifting community, both as a competitor and judge. As a gym manager and mentor, he inspired countless individuals to become the strongest version of themselves — both physically and mentally. His encouragement, discipline, and sense of humor left a lasting impact on all who knew him.  Rich will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, his strength of character, and his ability to lift others up — in every sense of the word.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025 at Hartman Jones Funeral Home from 2:00 PM until graveside services at 3:00 PM in Hollywood cemetery Hartman Jones Funeral Home will be in charge of the arrangements.

A celebration of Rich's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Wounded Warrior Project or to Revolution Fitness.