Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Richard Bay Obituary
Redding, CA
Richard Mark Bay (61) died at home after battling the brain disease Frontotemporal Degeneration (Behavioral Variant Type). He was well loved by his wife of 35 years, Patricia Bay, his daughters Tara and Ashley Bay and his granddaughter, Allison Bay. His sister, Claire Bay, and countless other family members and friends, adored Rich, as well.
Rich was born in Los Angeles, to parents Fredric and Jeannette Bay, and lived there until he and Patty moved to Redding in 1981. For 30 years he was the attorney who represented abused children, working tirelessly to make them safe from further harm. At one time, he was also the youngest Federal Judge in the United States.
Music and dancing were two of Rich's passions. He was the drummer for the rock band The Torpedoes. Rich also played many other types of drums, including Native American drums which he loved to play accompanying Patty playing Native American flutes and didgeridoo.
Rich and Patty taught clogging in Redding beginning in 1981. They coached Shasta County Cloggers, Attitude Clogging Team and Take That Cloggers. They also loved to ballroom dance together.
One of Rich's tremendous joys was riding his Harley Davidson motorcycles. His Harley buddies meant the world to him and they enjoyed countless hours riding all over the West coast. He loved it when Patty was with him on the Harley. Working out was Rich's other great passion. During his long illness, he was often seen walking for hours, along with his best buddy, Harley, his German Shorthaired Pointer.
Rich was a man of integrity, honor, dignity and strength. He loved his family and friends more than anything in this world. He will be deeply missed by so many people.
Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, January 30th at 1 pm Center for Spiritual Living 1905 Hartnell Ave., Redding 96002.
Please sign the guestbook at http://obits.redding.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Bay
Dianne Barr
January 11, 2025
Patty, I will never forget being with Doug at Richard´s service.
We both felt that White Dove of Peace!
I felt that same White Dove of Peace at Doug´s service on November 26, 2024.
I love you.
Dianne
Henny Lefebvre
January 12, 2024
Our hearts broke hearing the news of Richards passing. He was an amazing attorney for us and quickly became a good friend. Rest in peace our friend. Our Sincerest Condolences go out to Patty and his family.
Henny & Roger Lefebvre
Coeur d`Alene, Idaho
Paula McKinnon
January 11, 2023
Thinking of you today, Claire.
Marilyn and Jessica Wooley
February 10, 2016
Dear Patty, Tara, and Ashley,
We were devastated to hear about Rich's passing. He was an exceptional man, and devoted to his family and the people he helped. His kindness and courage will be sorely missed by many. May joyous memories of your husband and father give you comfort and peace. We send you all our love and compassion.
Walt McNeill
January 31, 2016
Rest easy my friend. We feel the warmth of your smile even now. It was an honor to know you, and your gifts to all are a legacy that goes beyond time.
Douglas & Dianne Barr
January 31, 2016
Rich's memorial was unbelievable, actually more than that...it was unforgetable. There was standing room only, the side aisles were lined with standing people, the foyer was packed with standing people and they even overflowed to the outside.
But the most amazing thing was the tangible spirit of love that hovered over every body like fluttering wings of a white dove. Everybody there was a living expression of the tremendous love this one man had for his fellow human beings. That's why I will remember that memorial for the remainder of my life and show me the goal I should strive for. It was truly beautiful.
I will never forget the impact of Rich's life on the incredible number of people there and on the countless others that were not. And above us all that white dove of love and peace.
It was celestial.
Love,
Doug Barr
valeri amos
January 30, 2016
Rich was a great guy, I knew him as a foster child and then into my adult life. He was there for me when i needed it and always listened to as well as gave me advice on how to deal with troubles I had as a child, and even as an adult I will forever cherish these sweet memories. my deepest sympathy to his family, may the love and memories carry you through these days of sorrow.
Lilly Donahoe
January 30, 2016
The world has lost a beautiful soul. Rich will be missed by everyone who had the opportunity to know him.
Michael Kirkland
January 27, 2016
Rest In Peace My Friend and Fellow FTD Warrior. Looking forward to seeing you again one day, whole and in perfect health as you were miraculously healed of all infirmity at the very second you left here! To Rich's Beautiful Family, my condolences to each of you. God Bless, Strengthen And Heal Your Broken Hearts.
Marilyn Norberg
January 26, 2016
Ken and I so enjoyed getting to know Rich over the last two years. So fun to deliver a pie while he was working out with Harley and hear him groan about his waistline but smile in anticipation of eating it. He will be missed in so many ways.......
January 26, 2016
Have just heard the news and am overwhelmed with sadness. He'll be remembered with love and admiration. He suffered for so long and at last found the peace he so deserved. He was a gentle and noble person. Stan sends his love a long with me. xo, Lucetta
Lizz Thomason
January 26, 2016
The first time I met Richard it was late at night and Patty had brought one of her "clients" home because of an altercation. Richard came out and asked was everything ok and Patty said yes that I was spending the night. He said OK sleep tight and see you in the morning. He made coffee in the morning and made me feel like just a run of the mill friend having a sleepover. From then on, 27 years ago Richard Bay became my friend, confidant, and the brother I never had. I love you sweetheart. I will hold you in my heart always.
Linda Harrwll
January 26, 2016
Rich I didn't know as well as I knew Patty. But the times I spent around Rich, I knew his heart was huge, his patience endless, and his love of life boundless. He was a man of music, of motorcycles, of peace, goodness, friendship and of endless love for his family. He fought hard and long to stay with those he loved and his courage gave others courage as well to do those things often thought impossible. I think of Rich, Patty and his family, and pray that they find the strength and peace that will allow them to continue in life as Rich would have them to do.
Michael Arnold
January 26, 2016
We pray your at peace Richard. You will live on in the hearts of all who had the pleasure and privilege of knowing you. To your devoted wife and family, he will always be alive each day in your loving thoughts. A great man, father and husband.
Dolores Williams-Wagner
January 26, 2016
Patty and girls, My thoughts and prayers are with you all. What fond memories I have of Rich. He helped so many and blessed so many lives. He will be missed...God bless you my friend and know that I am thinking of you.
Susan Rebholz
January 26, 2016
I want to extend my condolences to the entire Bay family on the loss of your loved one. Rich is now free of this horrific illness and is finally whole again. He's now an angel looking down upon all of you.
Patricia Bay
January 26, 2016
Information about the Celebration of Richard Bay's Life: (all are welcome)
Saturday, January 30, 2016
1:00 pm (Please bring a finger food to share)
Center for Spiritual Living
1905 Hartnell Avenue
Redding, CA 96002
Attire: Anything you want to wear... some will be wearing "Harley" gear.
January 26, 2016
Much love to Claire, Jake and the whole Bay family upon this great loss.
The McKinnon Family - NYC
Teresa Manning
January 24, 2016
Rich,
I am so sad to see you go but so incredibly honored you were apart of my life. My son and I will be forever touched by memories of you as our advocate, lawyer but lastly friend.
I am so happy Patty read you my letter days before you left us. It was so important for me that you knew how truly grateful I am to have known you.
We love you and we send our deepest sympathies and prayers to your family.
Native American drummer
Patricia Bay
January 22, 2016
Harley rider
Patricia Bay
January 22, 2016
Drummer Richard Bay
Patricia Bay
January 22, 2016
Former Federal Judge
Patricia Bay
January 22, 2016
Rich and Patty
Patricia Bay
January 22, 2016
Kevin Smiley
January 22, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this time. I only new Rich for a short while and new his pain first hand fighting this disease called FTD. He handled it with character and amazing love from his family.
Patricia Bay
January 22, 2016
Sherri Leitem
January 21, 2016
I have so many fond memories of working with Rich in Juvenile Court. He was so dedicated to kids and justice for them. It was a pleasure to work with someone with so much integrity. And he had the best sense of humor! He will be missed by so many.
Bob Maloney
January 19, 2016
Patty,
When I think of Rich I smile. Not only was Rich a guy who would always raise your spirits, but he was just fun to work with and a treasure for those lucky enough to be represented by him. He taught me good things about life. I will miss him. I am sorry for your loss and that of the girls and extended family but am glad that the difficulty of caring for Rich and dealing with so much uncertainty in these last days has ended. The memory of your smiling faces, you and Rich together, will always be with me.
Bob Maloney
Lori Bridgeford
January 19, 2016
The term raising the bar --just took on another dimension with Richard. Patty, you both were aligned on many levels/dimensions, and the combined reflection has elevated this realm on earth more than words can capture. Rare is the person who just has to show up-and immediately affect the energy/ vibe/ flow --THIS is how one meets Richard.I bless his parents that were gifted such a divine soul. Richard chose well to select /bond/attach to Patty. It's the blessing from this, we now indulge. He was the ideal child's attorney when I worked with foster children. The kids felt protected by him. Sorry for any pain of this world--we can do this together. Lori Bridgeford, MFT Redding CA
Scott La Fein
January 19, 2016
Dear Patty, Ashley & Tara, Although I have not had the honor and pleasure of knowing your family well, I have had touches and upon hearing the stories from our local community I feel a kindred spirit with you all. Having worked with abused kids for 30 years myself, I DEEPLY appreciate the compassion and advocacy that Rich brought to many lives; especially within the legal system. I am sorry for your sad loss. My deepest condolences and blessings to each of you.
Terri (Love) Morelock
January 19, 2016
Richard was one of a kind. He and John M. were quite a pair back in the ole' DAFSD times. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Greg Gaul, Presiding Judge - Shasta County
January 19, 2016
Rich, we at the courthouse will all miss you. I always enjoyed working with you as an attorney and later having you appear before me in dependency court. You were a consummate professional, always acting in the best interest of your client(s). I enjoyed listening to you when you would sing the praises of a child you represented, or their parents who did the right thing and turned their situation around so that they could get their children back and be a family again. Beyond that, you were a good "friend of the court" and a straight-shooter, always willing to assist others. Thank you for everything you did and represented.
Michael Sacheibli
January 19, 2016
Rich was one of the few people who could and did get through to me, his love came without conditions, his friendship came without strings, his love of his family , friends and everybody who ever crossed paths with him was true and unwavering. I am proud to say he was my friend.
Kimberly (Bolander) Ross
January 18, 2016
Some of the kids Rich represented faced the most serious consequences as they went through our local courts. He was a true advocate for those children. His heart was in his work and focused on their best interests, even when his young clients appeared not to care. A difficult task, but one Rich met with hope and quiet dignity. I'm very sad to learn we've lost such a compassionate human being.
January 18, 2016
Sending thought-felt sympathy to Ashley and her family. May the love and memories bring you comfort and healing.
Regards,
Lynlee
Chris Trailer, LMFT
January 18, 2016
Dear Patty,
So sorry to hear of Rick's passing, but from the obit sounds like you guys had 35 fun-packed years together. Though I didn't know either of you, I learned of his death from being on the Redding Regional email list and was touched with what I read. You both accomplished so much; what an amazing couple! My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family in this time of mourning.
Kindest Regards,
Chris
CAMFT State Board, Director at Large
Henny & Roger Lefebvre
January 18, 2016
Richard was our Attorney, a great man who's ethics are outstanding. A great man that will be missed dearly by both Roger and I. Patti, our hearts are with you and may you find peace knowing he's happy and well in God's arms. God Bless your entire family, our Sincerest Condolences.
January 18, 2016
Rich was one of the finest men we have ever known. He made anyone he met feel like "forever friends". Meet once, remember always, his smile, kindness, loyalty and love. Our hearts are with his Patty and family. Doug and Peggy Laird
Paula Maulsby
January 18, 2016
We met Richard (and Patty) only once and yet felt an immediate friendship from their welcoming spirit. We are thankful for that brief meeting because we felt the presence of a true loving and open spirit. God Bless you Patty and your family.
January 18, 2016
Chuck and I would like to send our condolence to Patti and family in the lost of Richard, he will be missed by many family members and many friends. Chuck and Joyce Scott.
From your fellow FTD FB friend and her Bud.
Anna Ibarra
January 18, 2016
Celebrating a life that was chosen for him, and advocating his career for children. God Bless and was taken by this dreadful disease FTD. May peace find the family of Rich Bay.
Pamela Mortensen
January 18, 2016
Much love to you and all of your family, Patty. Rich, you are missed, my friend.
Dick Fyten
January 17, 2016
This gentleman was great guy and a wonderful neighbor. Karen and I will miss his cheerful "hi Dick and Karen" and the meaningful conversations on just about any topic. Patty we are just across the street. Anything we can do to help let us know. May God look over you Patty and your family during these stressful times.
Reatha Hirsch
January 17, 2016
Patty, my deepest condolences to you and your family. Prayers and thoughts are with you.
Jeff and Marie Granberry
January 17, 2016
Patty- our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Sending prayers and hugs to you.
Elaine Swingle
January 17, 2016
I am very sad to hear of Richard's passing. I'm so touched to read all the kind words about Richard in this book. I feel like I know Richard because I know his sister Claire. She also is exceptionally kind, thoughtful and always has a smile on her face. All of my family loves her. Claire loves taking care of older people and keeping them strong and independent. Richard has done so much good for so many children and for the world. I feel love for the entire Bay family. I'm so touched by the wonderful care you all took of Richard. I am sad for all of you, and I wish for you that you will experience joyful memories at this time and for years to come.
Kila Chalker
January 17, 2016
So very sad my thoughts and prayers are with the family. The world is a much saderplace without him he was one of the only true people who listened to foster kids like me when I was in the system as a young teenager everybody thought was trouble he listened.
Erin Provencher
January 17, 2016
Rich was a prince - he was always so kind to everyone.
Karen Ball
January 17, 2016
I was also a foster parent who had children represented by this wonderful man. He was a source of strength and comfort during very difficult times. I am very grateful for this man may he rest in peace and may his family be blessed by knowing he made a difference in the world that impacted many lives.
Rhondie Bell
January 17, 2016
I'm so honored to have met the Bay family. Richard has a wonderful family and he will forever live on through them. Hugs
Kimberly Baldree
January 17, 2016
Our prayers are with Rich and family. Our family has 3 wonderful children because of him. The children loved going in to see him, I did too. He will always be in our hearts for the h hero that he was.
January 17, 2016
I am a NJ friend of Claire's. I am so very sorry to hear of Rich's passing. My heartfelt condolences.
Aileen Marcus
Tom and Wendy Graves
January 17, 2016
We are so sorry to hear about your loss, Patty. We send you our condolences and may your memories sustain you in the future.
Patty
January 17, 2016
As a Foster Parent, so many of the kids in my home would go to their appointment to see Rich.... And I loved it when he would look them straight in the eye and tell them,"I am your lawyer and here only for you.... No one else, so tell me what you want and I will fight for that". He was such an advocate for the kids! He will be dearly missed and condolences to the family.
Tyna Hartman
January 17, 2016
Patty, Dave and I are so sorry for your loss.
you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Clarissa, Jim, Kailee and Natalee Loffmark
January 17, 2016
So many fond memories from my childhood!!! I will always remember when we first met and watched you both clogg at the senior citizens hall when we were there playing our fiddles. So many years ago..,,, Thinking of you all during this difficult time and sending Huge Hugs and our love.
Connie Bedoya
January 17, 2016
One of the kindest, most generous people I have ever known. An Angel walking among us. So glad to have known Rich.
Lance Boek
January 17, 2016
Such an example of bad things happening to the best of people. Many fond memories while sharing a Cul-De-Sac with the Bay's through the 90's. The kids & I are deeply saddened by the loss of this wonderful man, Rich was absolutely one of the finest guys I'd met along life's journey. RIP old friend.
Steve Callan
January 17, 2016
What I remember most about Rich was his positive, cheerful demeanor. He was a joy to be around. We will miss him.
Donna Nachreiner
January 17, 2016
Thoughts and prayers to all. Rich was a credit to his profession and a tireless advocate for kids. He will be missed by all who knew him personally or professionally.
Lorie O'Keefe
January 17, 2016
Such a great man. Will be so missed. Helped so many kids in our town. RIP our dear friend Rich.
January 17, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Patty. I have always had so much respect for Rich. I am so sorry for your loss.
January 17, 2016
Patty,
You and the girls are in our prayers. A huge hug. We are sorry for your loss. Love Mike and Barb
Bonnie Palmer
January 17, 2016
If ever there was a bracelet, there should be one that said..WHAT WOULD RICHARD DO..
Garnet Hunter
January 17, 2016
Patty: You were married to one of God's Earth Angles. Good Bless you and the family.
Adele
January 17, 2016
Rich was a strong voice for the many foster children through my home. He is greatly missed. Prayers for his family and friends
Diann Panek
January 17, 2016
Patty and Family,
I have fond memories of Richard. When I saw him on the street or in the halls of the Courthouse he was always smiling!! May you find peace in the happy memories. Richard touched many lives and he will live on through them.
Rich Nance
January 17, 2016
So sad for the loss of one of the most compasionate, sincere, hard working child advocate. Miss the talks and greetings in the courthouse and his always ready smile and humor.
beth livney
January 17, 2016
Richard was such a wonderful man who honestly cared for each child he represented. He will be greatly missed. My condolences to his loved ones during this time. Rest in peace Richard.
Dominic R
January 17, 2016
I am truly sorry that this great man passed away. As child Richard took my case as foster child. He always listened and always made me feel at ease. He fought for me so that i could see my mother while in foster care. i could never thank him enough for that. thank you again Richard.
Paul Berkowitz
January 17, 2016
To Patty and the entire Bay family, I join you in deep sadness for the loss of wonderful man. Richard made a huge positive impact on so many lives ... mine, included. He will be missed - and remembered - far and wide.
Tami Martinovich
January 17, 2016
Patty,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you lots of strength and love. Huge hugs~
Alisha Lower
January 17, 2016
I'm so sorry for the loss of Uncle Rich. He was such a great guy. He will be missed greatly. I know he no longer suffers from his terrible brain disease. I love you Uncle Rich. Your memory lives on. Cheers!
Robert Kirvin
January 17, 2016
GOD bless you Richrad. You will surely be missed. You are one of the good guys and I have always had tremendous respect for you and your character. Rest in peace my friend.
Nancy Geer
January 17, 2016
Patty,
I'm so sorry to hear about this. He was definitely one of themost compassionate men I knew. My thoughts are with you.
Thomas Burg
January 17, 2016
I have already talked to you since your passing and in my heart and mind told you how very much you were loved, admired and honored by others and myself. This note is just one of many I will leave as time goes on. Enjoy the new ride and the new music, I look forward to seeing it all with you when I join you. Love to Patty and the girls! Later my friend.
Jackie Bell
January 17, 2016
Patty, Tara and family,
I was so sorry to see the obituary on your husband and father Richard. May you find strength in each other to face this loss. Keep him safe in your memories and hearts--Jackie Bell
John and Judie Goertemiller
January 17, 2016
We love you,Richard, and will miss you terribly. Will always be cuzinks. Just glad you are out of pain and misery. Will be praying for your family. Now you can ride forever on heaven's roads.
Wanda Derra
January 17, 2016
So sorry for your loss.Too soon a great guy left us. Take comfort in all the wonderful memories.
Helen Peterson
January 17, 2016
I am so very, very sorry for your loss, Patty.
Christine Waite
January 17, 2016
I'm so sorry for your loss. Rich was a wonderful man. Patty and family, you will be in my prayers.
January 16, 2016
Bless you Rich for all the Children you represented, it was always good to be with you at court especially the fun we had with my first case as a CASA. Roger E. Lindberg
Joyce & Dan Angello
January 16, 2016
Dan and I just heard about Rich's passing and wanted to send our condolences to you, Patty, and your family. We can only imagine the sadness and loss you all are feeling. We remember fondly, clogging with you both and especially Rich's exuberance when he clogged....his feet barely seemed to touch the ground.
Our thoughts are with you all during this difficult time. We hope that the emptiness and sadness that you are feeling now will soon be replaced with the loving, wonderful memories of Rich. We, too, are going to miss him.
Love,
Joyce and Dan
Showing 1 - 84 of 84 results
Make a Donation
in Richard Bay's name
Memorial Events
for Richard Bay
How to support Richard's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Richard Bay's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
