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BORN
1950
DIED
2025
UPCOMING SERVICE
Richard Gaffney Obituary
Rich was born on January 26, 1950, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Richard and Leota Gaffney. He was proud of his military service in the U.S. Army. Throughout his professional life, Rich held numerous leadership positions in banking across the Bloomington and downstate Illinois area, ultimately serving as President of Free Star Bank in Bloomington.
Rich will be remembered for his warm personality, sharp wit, and zest for life. He had a lifelong love of golf and bowling, and his happiest moments were spent with family and friends-always laughing, telling stories, and finding joy in every gathering.
He is preceded in death by his father, Richard Gaffney. He is survived by his mother Leota Gaffney (Momo), his son, Jeffrey Scott Gaffney; his three beloved grandchildren, Kian, Kaden, and Lila Gaffney; his brother, Gary (Sharon); his nieces, Lane and Annie (Aaron). Lastly, his loving companion, Julie Baird, whose care, love, and friendship brought him great happiness in recent years.
Rich's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched-with kindness, humor, and an enduring spirit that will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
Rich's Party is on Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Bloomington, Illinois. Family and friends are invited to gather and raise a glass in honor of Rich's remarkable life. The party will be informal-come as you are, just as Rich would want.
Memorial Events
for Richard Gaffney
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Gaffney
16 Entries
Tom McCulley and Ron Frazier
November 3, 2025
Tom McCulley and Ron Frazier--Rich's next-door neighbors since we moved into our house 18 years ago. Rich was a great neighbor, of course! But more than that, he was a warm, friendly, humorous, generous and kind man. We are lucky to have had him as a neighbor and friend.
Linda Smith
November 1, 2025
My sympathy to you and your family. I have fond memories of teaching a young Rich how to play the accordion. Needless to say, that was many years ago. I am a sister to Ken Smithson and I now live in Ohio. Prayers for you. Linda Smith
Susan Prochnow
October 30, 2025
Thinking of you Julie, sending you hugs!! and may God bless you in this time of sorrow!
Howard & Carolyn
October 29, 2025
We are so sorry to hear of Rich's passing. We've been friends for well over 45 years and will never forget his sense of humor and pleasant personality. May God continue to look over the family during this time of loss.
Howard & Carolyn
Vickie Slagell
October 29, 2025
Alan and I live in TN now and won´t be able to attend the "party" but it will certainly celebrate a great person
Vickie Lauritson Slagell
Vickie Slagell
October 29, 2025
Rich and I spent our childhood together as neighbors. His death is like a major part of my childhood gone. We went all the way through Ellsworth grade school and TriValley schools always remaining good friends including parties and Saturday night movies at LeRoy Princess Theatre. I am so sad for his loss. Even through his adulthood he was a trusting friend and wonderful person. What a loss to all of us
Vickie Lauritson Slagell
BOB MATLOCK
October 29, 2025
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Merri
October 29, 2025
I´m so sorry to hear this! Rich was such a great guy! I met him many years ago and then worked with him at Freestar. He was an outstanding person.
Don J Hancock
October 29, 2025
This is Don Hancock from Heyworth. Always competed against Rich in sports. Great competeter
and a joy to challenge.
Also played in a band with John J Poindexter. Rich did the lead vocal.
Truly sorry to see Rich go.
Dave Fedor
October 29, 2025
I've known Rich for over 30 years. He was a joy to work with, a joy to play golf with and a joy to just be around. Rest in peace buddy, you're gone from us way too soon!
Anita Nafziger
October 29, 2025
Rich was a couple years behind me at Tri-Valley. He always had a smile and was involved in as many things as he could be. Super guy, and is now in a better place with our Lord. God Bless the family.
Linda Frautschi
October 29, 2025
Incredible sadness at his loss. So many wonderful memories. May you rest in heavenly peace Rich.
Cousin Linda
Marilyn J Evans
October 29, 2025
We are so sorry to hear of Rich's passing. He was a friend and our Banker for many years. Our prayers for the entire family.
Joe and Marilyn Evans
Tony Matens
October 29, 2025
I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of Rich. He was always a great friend, and we had great times together. I first got to know Rich over 50 years ago when he was at Peoples Bank. Everybody liked and respected Rich. My sincere sympathy to Jeff and his family. Rich's brother Gary and to Julie Baird. I no longer live in Illinois and regret I won't be able to come to the party on November 8th.. I'll miss Rich and always have fond memories of his friendship.
Craig Humphrey
October 29, 2025
Leota Gary and family, so sorry to hear about Rich. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
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