A beloved teacher and coach from Chillicothe, Missouri, Richard “Todd” Fairchild, passed away at his home on October 8, 2025, at the age of 63.
In recent years, Todd faced a tough battle with bulbar-onset ALS. Despite his illness, he was deeply moved by the love and support from former students, lifelong friends, colleagues, and classmates.
Todd is survived by his wife of 40 years, Laurie Ann Lyman; his son, Eric, and daughter-in-law, Hallie; and his mother, Linda Fairchild.
Laurie and Todd had been married for 4 decades and had each other’s backs until his passing. They walked down the aisle on June 8, 1985.
For their 40th wedding anniversary, their family had organized a card shower. Kennedi Fairchild, one of their relatives, wrote:
Todd and Laurie are celebrating 40 years of marriage this week❤️
Kennedi Fairchild
We’re organizing a card shower to show them just how loved and appreciated they are. Let’s flood their mailbox as they celebrate four decades of life, laughter, and love together!
The coach loved spending time with Laurie. The longtime married couple enjoyed concerts, sporting events, and any adventure.
He was a beloved grandfather to his two grandchildren, Treynor and Zoey, who brought nothing but immense joy to his life.
Todd also leaves behind his sister, Amy Hess; his brother, Tony, and sister-in-law, Paula Fairchild; his mother-in-law, Judy Lyman; and sisters-in-law, Angela Bose (and Jeff) of Lee’s Summit and Karen Jackson (and Jeff).
Whereas, he was preceded in death by his father, Richard Fairchild; his father-in-law, Larry Lyman; and his brother-in-law, Tim Hess.
Born on December 3, 1961, in Fairfax, Missouri, Todd grew up in Chillicothe and graduated from Chillicothe High School.
He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Northwest Missouri State University in 1984.
Todd’s passion for teaching and coaching shaped his career. He began teaching in Hale, Missouri, where he spent 12 years working with students and coaching sports.
Later, he taught in Meadville and then in Hamilton, Missouri, where he taught middle school social studies and coached various activities.
Todd had a special way of connecting with his students, creating “The Andy Griffin Club” to teach them important life lessons through fun and meaningful activities.
A memorial service to celebrate Todd’s life will be held at the Chillicothe United Methodist Church, 1414 Walnut Street, Chillicothe, on Monday, October 13, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.
Friends and family are invited to visit on Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the same church.
Whereas, those who wish to pay their respects can also stop by Lindley Funeral Home, 910 Washington Street, Chillicothe, on Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
During this difficult time, we pray for the strength of Todd’s wife, kids, grandchildren, and extended family.
Rest In Heavenly Peace, Coach Richard “Todd” Fairchild!
