The Magnolia Family Medicine (MFM) community is mourning the sudden and unexpected passing of Dr. Richard Gutsin, a cherished physician, mentor, and the visionary founder of MFM. Dr. Gutsin, affectionately known as “Dr. G” to patients and colleagues alike, passed away on June 5, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassionate care, clinical excellence, and heartfelt connection with his patients.
Dr. Gutsin founded Magnolia Family Medicine in March 2000, following a five-year partnership at Azalea Coast Internal Medicine. Over nearly three decades in medicine, he touched the lives of thousands across the region, many of whom had remained loyal patients since the very beginning. He was known not only for his deep medical knowledge but also for the way he made every patient feel seen, heard, and valued.
“Being a physician was his calling, not just his career,” the MFM team shared in a heartfelt announcement. “He wore his heart on his sleeve. His sincerity, his quick wit, and his dedication will never be forgotten.”
Colleagues and staff at MFM describe Dr. G as more than a boss—he was a guiding presence, a trusted friend, and a mentor whose wisdom and humanity set the tone for the practice. His signature blend of clinical skill and personal care made MFM more than a medical office—it became a family.
In preparation for the next chapter of the practice he built, Dr. Gutsin had already chosen a successor in Dr. Umar Bowers, a close friend and respected colleague who shares the same philosophy of personalized, patient-centered care. Dr. Bowers and his team at Dawson Med are stepping in to ensure the continuity of care for all MFM patients.
While Magnolia Family Medicine works through this transition, appointments will be temporarily rescheduled to Dawson Med Primary Care at 608 Dawson Street, with acute needs being handled at Dawson Med Urgent Care, also located at that address. The MFM team has assured patients that many of the familiar faces they’ve come to trust will remain part of the care team going forward.
“This is an unimaginable loss,” the statement reads, “but we will carry on his mission—with grace, with heart, and with the same unwavering commitment to our patients.”
The MFM team encourages the community to honor Dr. Gutsin’s memory by taking care of their health, being proactive in their medical care, and embracing their loved ones a little more closely.
Dr. Richard Gutsin’s absence will be deeply felt, but the practice he built, and the lives he changed, will continue to reflect the values he lived by.
For ongoing updates and answers to patient questions, visit www.magnoliafmed.com and www.dawson-med.com.