Celebrating Lonnie Rich’s Retirement: A Legacy of Leadership, Kindness, and Community

Many Stylebook readers likely know Lonnie Rich. You might know him through the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, where he served as a board member and past Chair. You may know him through Family First Law Group and RRBMDK, where he’s spent the past 19 years helping families and small businesses with estate planning and legal guidance. You might remember his time as a member of the Alexandria City Council, or his work with The Campagna Center, or even know him through his faith community—or perhaps, you’ve simply attended one of his legendary pajama parties.

Lonnie Rich

Lonnie has been an incredible part of the Alexandria community, and I’ve been fortunate to learn from him over the past seventeen years. I’m so proud to call him my partner and even prouder to celebrate his well-deserved retirement. Beyond learning how to draft estate documents and handle small business transactions, I’ve learned so many life lessons from him—lessons worth passing on:

Get Involved In What You Love. 

Don’t try to be on every committee or attend every event—it will only be surface level. Instead, find what you’re passionate about and dive in. For me, that was the Junior Friends of the Campagna Center, an organization I joined after Lonnie encouraged me to spend the day volunteering for the Scottish Christmas Walk instead of staying in the office. I spent over ten years in various roles there, and later, I became General Counsel for the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce.

Get to Know People One on One.

Collecting business cards is one thing; truly connecting with people is another. Lonnie taught me that relationships grow when you take the time to meet someone for lunch, grab a coffee, or have a drink once a month. Real connection requires depth, not just a handshake.

Have Lots of Time Buckets. 

Try new things. Learn constantly. Fill your time with activities that bring you joy beyond work. Lonnie has many “buckets”—reading, dancing, baseball, grandparenting, and more—and he pours himself into each with curiosity and heart.

Treat Everyone with Respect and Honesty.

Lonnie is one of the most genuine listeners I know (though Marcia might debate that). He respects differing viewpoints, holds his beliefs with integrity, and approaches conversations with kindness and humility. He’s present when he speaks with you, quick to laugh, and never takes himself too seriously.

Family First Law

There are countless other lessons I’ve learned from Lonnie—and many of his good habits I’m still trying to emulate. I’m deeply honored to have built a law firm with him and to see him retire on such a high note, ready to pour even more time into his next “buckets.” I can’t wait to follow along with his adventures and see the joy he’ll bring to his family, friends, and community in this next chapter.

SEE ALSO:  Estate Planning for Blended Families: Protecting Everyone's Interests