Richard Anthony O'Day

Passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026, in his home in Sacramento, CA. Born in San Francisco, December 14, 1932.

Loving husband of Mary E. O’Day. Son of the late Mervyn J. O’Day and Theresa L. O’Day. He leaves two beloved sons, Richard J. O’Day and Brian F. O’Day and two adorable grandsons, Christian James O’Day and Jordan Louis O’Day. He was preceded in death by infant Kevin M. O’Day.

Rich, as he was called by friends, attended Christian Brothers High School and Santa Clara University where he graduated with a degree in biology in 1954. He then enrolled at the University of Pacific School of Dentistry in San Francisco, graduating in 1958. He served on active duty from 1958 to 1960 with the rank of Captain in the United States Air Force. From 1960 to 1964 he was a resident in oral and maxillofacial surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota and was a fellow at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, from which he also received a post-doctoral master’s degree. Following his hospital residency, he entered several decades of private practice in Sacramento. He also served for nine years as an advisor and examiner for the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Chicago.

Upon retirement, Rich followed a new career in music. He became an accomplished jazz pianist and played at many venues over a span of 20 years including regular performance at the Marines’ Memorial Club in San Francisco and Biba’s Ristorante in Sacramento. He also became an award-winning composer/lyricist and member of ASCAP. Rich and Mary enjoyed and supported the cabaret and jazz genres. Many renowned national artists became close friends.

Rich was an avid aviator for fifty years and was a member and past Commander of the Sacramento County Sherrif’s Air Squadron, as well as The Quiet Birdmen. He took pride in introducing his son, Richard, to aviation with the latter enjoying a long career as a major airline captain. For many years he enjoyed ocean scuba diving. He was an avid skier and tennis player. In all his endeavors he enjoyed teaching and encouraging others.

Prayer Vigil at Gormley & Sons July 8, 2026, 1:30 PM, 2015 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95811

Interment will be private per deceased’s request at Holy Cross Cemetery in Colma, CA

Remembrances may be made to a charity of choice