Richard John Gay, of Louisville, KY, passed away Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the age of 97. He was born July 22, 1928, in Chicago, IL, son of John and Ann (Rylko) Gajewski. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Ethel June Gay of 68 years of marriage; devoted father of Lynne (Michael) Tatum; Leeann (Ed) Siebeneck; and Mike (Debbie) Gajewski; cherished grandfather of Chris (Betty) Tatum, Julie (George) Green, Dan (Melissa) Gajewski, Megan (Adam) Swanson, and Joe (Julia) Gajewski, treasured great grandfather of 13; and a dear brother to his half-brother Bill (Ann) Pozdol.

Richard was a proud WWII Army Vet of the 24ID that supported the Occupation of Japan in 1946-47. After completing his service, Richard went to college on his GI Bill majoring in business/accounting and became a controller for Kraft Foods where he retired at the age of 58. Besides being a family man, Richard had a deep devotion to the Catholic Church. He was actively involved in parish life by volunteering for many activities, which included St. Vincent de Paul; distributing food for SEAM (Southeast Area Ministries); administering communion, anointing the sick; and providing assistance in support of finance committees for Catholic Parishes that he attended. Richard was a member of the Lion's Club and the VFW. He enjoyed playing cards with friends at the Traditions at Beaumont and family get togethers. Richard's passion was spending time with the family and traveling both domestically and internationally with Ethel.

Richard and Ethel built a life filled with love and commitment. His devotion to Ethel and family is irrefutable, leaving a legacy of faith and love of family for generations. Richard will be deeply missed by all that knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Hosparus.

Visitation:  3:00 – 7:00pm (EST) on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Fern Creek Funeral Home, 5406 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY

Funeral Mass:  11:00am (EST) on Friday, February 27, 2026 at St. John Paul II Catholic Church, 3521 Goldsmith, Louisville, KY

Committal: 12:30pm (EST)Monday,  March 23, 2026 at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central, 2501 N. Dixie Blvd, Radcliff, KY