Richard McKay

Richard L. McKay, 85, passed away on March 18th, 2026, in Citrus Heights, California.

Memorial service will be held at 11am on April 10th, 2026, at East Lawn Funeral Home at 3939 Fruitridge Road, Sacramento, California. Reception to follow at the same location.

Richard McKay was born in Long Beach, California to Roy and Goldie McKay on April 9th,1940. He graduated from McClatchy High School in 1958 and enlisted in the US Navy where he served 4 1/2 years overseas. After serving our country, he worked as a truck driver and in the rice drying industry. That industry soon became his passion, where he became a sought out industry leader and led to his famous saying 'have a rice day'. Richard enjoyed spending time working in his garage and teaching his children how to take care of their cars. A typical weekend included car shows, car trips, or going to a movie but always ended with a milkshake. He enjoyed old movies and there was not a John Wayne movie that he did not see. He loved family events and his nap time with his beloved cat, Pancho.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, brother Kenny, and wife Rosetta. He is survived by his children James, Michael and Melissa, daughter-in-law Pamela, sisters Janet McKay and Jane Reali and brother-in-law Pete Reali.

The family of Richard wishes to extend our sincere gratitude to Georgiana Nath and her care team at Twin Oaks Home Care Assistance and his care team at Sutter Hospice.