Richard Toraine Bartell

Richard “Rich” Toraine Bartell, 51, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away suddenly on January 7, 2026 at the young age of 51, leaving behind a powerful legacy of service, creativity, education and a lasting impact. As a Grammy-nominated music producer and executive who has sold millions of records, an awarded and recognized veteran, devoted husband, father, grandfather and loyal friend, Rich lived a full and exciting life whose reach was far and wide. Rich was deeply cherished by his beloved wife, Keema, of 22 years; the many family, friends, colleagues, veterans and artists whose lives he touched through both his generous spirit, his kindness and care, his unwavering loyalty and his extraordinary talents. Born on April 27, 1974, in Ramseur, North Carolina, Rich was the son of Richard Louis Bartell and Hattie Cheek Bartell. He graduated from Eastern Randolph High School. He attended North Carolina A&T State University, Norfolk State University and graduated with his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Organizational Communication and General Psychology from Queens University. He earned his Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pfeiffer University. He was pursuing his Doctoral Degree from Wingate University when his health began to fail. Before graduating college, Rich was drafted to play minor league baseball with the Seattle Mariners. He honorably served in the United States Navy as an Air Traffic Controller. He earned Junior Sailor of the Year because he ascended the ranks in record time and a Medal for his leadership and organizational expertise during a Florida hurricane. He later served as an Aviation Engineer for NASA/DOD. After becoming a Disabled Veteran, he served veterans and their families through a variety of community organizations and state-wide institutions like the North Carolina Assoc of Coordinators of Veterans Affairs. He also served his community through the veterans programs at Pfeiffer University, Goodwill and Central Piedmont Community College, where he served as the Director of Military Family and Veterans Center. Rich was a change agent. Whenever he entered a space to touch others, they were forever impacted and changed. His wisdom, generosity, quick wit, infectious sense of humor and unwavering kindness made a lasting impression on those around him. His presence brought joy to every room he entered and his talent spoke volumes. A giver and creator, he poured his heart into his work, shaping stories, sounds and lives that will continue to resonate for generations. To know Rich was to be inspired by his authenticity, warmth and deep passion for people and the people he loved. Rich Bartell was a multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated music producer/songwriter and executive. Throughout his career, Rich worked with numerous major music artists including Beyonce', N'Sync, Destiny's Child, Gucci Mane, Rihanna, Jamie Foxx, Ludacris, Madonna, Missy Elliot, 2 Chains, Teddy Riley, Nipsey Hussle, Little Brother, Lute, amongst others. As a music executive, he started his own independent music label called The Nukez Muzik. On the grassroots level, he generously shared his mentorship and creative vision to help develop and launch the careers of numerous singers, rappers, songwriters and music producers. Beyond music, he was a foodie who enjoyed traveling, creating, researching and learning, having deep conversations, spending time with those he loved, laughing and storytelling. He was admired for his loyalty, humility and ability to uplift others. Rich was an only child and has lost both of his parents, the aunt who raised him and grandparents. He is survived by his loving wife, Keema Mingo; his biological children Vanessa Bartell and Sean Mancini; his bonus children Tyler Mingo and Caleb Mingo; his grandchildren Aubrey Nelums, Kh'Amari Brewster, Ky'Mani Brewster, Kh'Alani Brewster and Kha'Omi Brewster; his maternal Aunt Tometta Walker and Uncle John Cheek; paternal Uncle Victor Bartell, Aunt Mary Bartell, Aunt Geraldine Garner, Aunt Eva Bartell-Cheek, Aunt Minnie Bartell Turnage, Uncle Keith Bartell and Uncle Kenneth Bartell as well as a host of extended family members, close friends, collaborators and loved ones who will forever treasure his memory.

Richard Toraine Bartell

April 27, 1974 - January 7, 2026