Dcn. Richard T. Fahy

Deacon Richard Thomas Fahy was born Nov. 15, 1938, and died on April 13, 2025, at the age of 86. He was born to John Lawrence Fahy and Janyce Menefee Fahy in St. Louis, Missouri. He spent most of his young life in St. Louis, except for a short period of time in Baltimore, Maryland. He was the first-born child to John and Janyce and had one sister, Carol Ann, who was born in 1943. He loved St Louis and continued to return there for visits throughout his lifetime. His lifelong friend, Al still lives there.

In December 1955, Rich joined the US Navy and completed his tour of duty in the Navy in October 1959. He definitely joined the Navy to see the world, and had many memories and stories from that time in his life. After a brief visit to St Louis, he joined the US Coast Guard in December 1959. He stayed in the Coast Guard until his retirement in 1982. His career in the Coast Guard was very rewarding to him and he retired as Master Chief, the highest non-commissioned officer rank there is.

On Sept. 20, 1980, he married Mary Betzen and assumed the responsibility of helping her raise two sons, Steve and Bryan. In October 1981 they had a third son, Jon. His family grew to include four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Holidays were wonderful in the Fahy household.

On Nov. 15, 2002, Rich was ordained into the permanent diaconate, a ministry he performed with great joy for the rest of his life. His ordination took place on his 64th birthday. Rich touched the lives of countless people and loved them all. One of the greatest joys for him was to be on the Altar, serving Mass and participating in many events on the altar.

Deacon Richard is survived by his wife, Mary, his sons Steve (Kaley), Bryan (Keri), and Jon (Mary), his grandchildren Tyler, Evelyn, Ashlee, and Colette, and his great-grandchildren Elijah, Luna, Anakin and Rose.

The wake service was April 24 at Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church in Oklahoma City. The funeral Mass is at 10:30 a.m. April 25 at Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church, 7336 West Britton Rd. in Oklahoma City. 

May he rest in peace.