Richard “Rick” McFall Jr., 78, passed away peacefully at his home in Lawrence, Kansas, on July 23, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.
Rick was born on September 26, 1947, in Eureka, Kansas, to Richard McFall Sr. and Irma McFall. As the oldest of seven children, he grew up in a lively, close knit home where family shaped every part of his life. His childhood memories of Eureka remained deeply meaningful to him.
Facing the possibility of being drafted into the Vietnam War, Rick chose to join the United States Air Force, proudly serving for eight years. He carried the quiet strength, discipline, and perspective from that time with him throughout his life.
On March 4, 1977, he married the love of his life, Jo. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. They raised their two children, Tina and Todd, and spent most of their married life in Douglass, Kansas, where Rick became a familiar and trusted presence in the community.
Rick had a lifelong love of sports. He played baseball in his younger years and later spent many seasons on the softball field. While he enjoyed the game, his greatest joy was always his family. He especially loved making people laugh. His quick wit, playful humor, and perfectly timed one liners became a signature part of gatherings with family and friends.
Rick was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took immense pride in his grandchildren. He was deeply involved in their lives, showing up for every milestone, celebration, and moment that mattered. His presence extended far beyond his immediate family. He was so involved and so beloved that he became well known among his children’s and grandchildren’s friends, who often saw him as an honorary grandparent, a source of humor, and a steady, welcoming figure.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Richard McFall Sr. and Irma McFall, and by his brothers, Teddy and Tommy.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jo; his children, Tina (husband Mark) and Todd; his cherished grandchildren, Hayley (husband Matt and children Marcus and Logan), Nicholas, Reganne, and Abbey; Hayley and Reganne’s dad Dean (wife Renee), his siblings, Danny, Timmy, Jan and Sally, and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Rick will be remembered not only for his service to his country and his devotion to his family, but for his humor, his kindness, and his gentle, accepting spirit. His family considers this one of the greatest gifts he gave them, and they will carry forward his legacy of kindness, acceptance, and unconditional love.
A private family ceremony will be held in Eureka, Kansas, where his family will celebrate his life and honor the place where his story began.
The family suggests memorial contributions made to the Alzheimer’s Association, directly
or
sent to Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Bx 1260 Lawrence, Kansas 66044
Uncle Rick you were very loved and will forever be missed.
Rick, you always made me feel loved and welcomed, and for that I thank you. You’ll be missed.♥️