Richard Earl Bachtel, age 76, of Wiggins, Mississippi, passed away on October 27, 2026.

Richard was born on September 19, 1950, in Canton, Ohio, where he was raised until he answered the call to serve his country, joining the military at just 17 years old. His service deployed him to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, a place he would come to love and call home for the rest of his life as he proudly earned his stripes as a veteran.

A man of incredible drive and dedication, Richard possessed an amazing work ethic and excelled in many trades, including pipefitting and automotive mechanics. Whether working with his hands or mastering a new skill, he poured his energy into being a hard worker, a steadfast provider, and a fierce protector for those he loved. He loved his family with his whole heart.

Richard was best known for his incredibly witty personality. While he knew when to be serious, he never failed to crack a joke and bring light to any room. It was truly rare to see him without a smile on his face, and he spent a lifetime ensuring that everyone around him was smiling, too.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard Bachtel and Violet Deaton; his step-mother, Rosey Bachtel; two brothers, Edward and Robert Bachtel; two sons, Michael Lott, and Brian Bachtel; two grandchildren, Chad Lee and Kyrstan Lee; and his nephew, Ron Oliver. 

He is survived by his siblings, Ray Bachtel, Dorothy Davis, and Nancy Oliver; his children, Devan Bachtel, Summer Bachtel, Richie Bachtel; his former wives, Karen Bachtel, and Cecilia Bachtel; and a host of beloved nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind a legacy through his nine grandchildren, Tyler Bachtel, Nicholas Bachtel, Taylor LoPresto, Josh Bachtel, Jacob Bachtel, Caley Lott, Sarah McGowan, Daniel Lott, and Madison Bachtel; as well as 12 beautiful great-grandchildren.

A service celebrating Richard's life will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Trinity Funeral Services located at 319 US 49, McHenry, MS 39561. Family visitation will take place from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Public visitation for family and friends will follow from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

Following the chapel service, a committal service with military honors and burial will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery located at 400 Veterans Ave, Biloxi, MS 39531.  Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Bachtel family and we ask that you remember them all in your thoughts and prayers over the coming days ahead.