Lane Rich

Lane Rich, 74, of Climax, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

The graveside funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Oak City Cemetery with Rev. Chris Humphries officiating. Orion Lodge #8 F&AM and Guy Farmer Sunday School class will serve as active pallbearers.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Online visitors may sign the guest register at www.bryantfuneralga.com. Memorial donations may be made to Orion Lodge #8 F&AM, PO Box 368, Bainbridge, GA 39818.

Allen Lane Rich was born August 8, 1951, in Bainbridge, GA, the son of Earl & Georgia Lane Rich. He was a graduate of Cairo High School, Class of 1969. Lane earned credits in technical school before enlisting in the Army National Guard. He is best known as the chief advocate for his customers at Lane Rich Insurance Agency for over 40 years and for his commitment to the Shriner’s and Orion Lodge #8 F&AM. Lane served the Lodge as secretary, worshipful master, and assisted with fundraising over the course of almost fifty years. He was a member of First Baptist Church and Guy Farmer Sunday School class.

A one-of-a-kind, forever friend, Lane always seemed to be in the know or working to find out the details. He made his rounds on the regular beginning with the Hardee’s breakfast bunch. Lane found that his clients often became like family, so he didn’t hold back with insurance companies when arguing on their behalf. He made it his business to check in, offer words of wisdom, and sometimes just poke the bear for fun.

Lane loved the outdoors and made a habit of giving daily “wildlife reports” on the animals around him. Feeding the squirrels became one of his favorite pastimes. His home at Camp Flats was his favorite place to relax and entertain. He especially enjoyed fishing and duck hunting. Lane was also known for gathering mayhaws and faithfully holding the strainer for Billie Jean as she made jelly—batches he delighted in sharing with others.

Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Billie Jean Bell Rich; his children, Jeff & Nikki Rich and Jonathan Rich; his grandchildren, Marbella, Michael, Logan, and Morgan; his sisters, Emily Rich and Ellen Rich Fokes; and his best friend, Jim Beck (Shirley). In addition to his parents, Lane was preceded in death by his siblings, Earl Rich, Jr. and Nancy Rich Crosby.