Obituary: Richard William Planer

Richard William Planer, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Feb. 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on April 27, 1935, in Gastonia, N.C., and carried the values of warmth, kindness, and generosity from his small-town upbringing throughout his life.

In 1960, he moved to Atlanta, Ga., with his life partner and beloved wife, Barbara Cooper Planer, beginning a journey that would shape a beautiful family and a lifetime of friendships. Together, they raised three sons, Ira, Michael, and Billy, and, later, welcomed a daughter-in-law, Mindy Silver Planer, into the family. His five grandchildren, Austin Planer, Sara Planer, Hanna Planer, Baruch Levine, and Eliana Planer, were the absolute joy of his life. Nothing brought him more happiness than cheering them on, sharing stories, and watching them grow.

A lifelong lover of sports, he was happiest with a tennis racquet in hand or on the field coaching little league soccer or basketball or watching his grandchildren as they participated in their various activities. He believed deeply in showing up — for his children, his grandchildren, for his community, and for the organizations he loved. His commitment to service was felt across schools and teams where he volunteered through PTA and booster clubs, and, especially, at his cherished synagogue, Ahavath Achim, where he gave his time generously and where he and Barbara formed some of their most meaningful connections. Yet, all of this took a backseat to his joy of being at a Braves game with anyone willing to enjoy (or endure) his colorful side commentary.

He leaves behind a wide circle of friends who treasured his humor, his loyalty, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome and at ease. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews who were proud to call him family.

His legacy is one of kindness, devotion, and a life lived with a quiet purpose. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will continue to be a blessing to all who loved him.

Services were held at Ahavath Achim Synagogue at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, followed by the burial at Greenwood Cemetery at 11 a.m.

Shiva was held Thursday, Feb. 5, at Ahavath Achim Synagogue from 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Friday, Feb. 6, at The Piedmont at Buckhead Apartment 9106 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Donations in his memory can be made to Ahavath Achim Synagogue. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care, 770-451-4999.