Rick was such a nice guy. I first met Rick in the late '80s when he worked at Grayling Auto on Adams Avenue. He was always quick with a smile while helping me with the Smitty's Auto 1967 Caprice Classic. And then over the years while he was working at Smitty's I would get to visit with him. A kind-hearted soul, for sure. We had fun on desert trips as well. Rick is missed and we all smile when we think of him. Rest in peace, Rick.

Greetings Rick family and fans.

I've known Rick since the late 80's. At that time, he worked at Greyling Auto on Adams Avenue across the street from Smitty's Service. I worked at San Diego Pasta across the street from Greyling Auto where the hair salon is now, a couple of doors East of Smitty's Service. At the time, I was driving Merle (Smitty) Smith's 1967 Chevy Caprice Classic. I had recently bought it and Mike and I had become friends then. Since it was Smitty's car, there was no real work that was necessary on the vehicle as it ran well. I wanted to add my touch to the car and would go into Greyling Auto and buy cool accessories. I remember Rick and his brother we're always helpful and easy to do business with. After a number of visits purchasing cool accessories, I was walking out the door with my latest shiny car item when Rick called out to me from behind the counter: "Remember Jeff, Chrome won't get you home." 😂 We all had a good laugh and the message was not lost on me that no matter how good a car looks, it's got to get you where you're going. Ever since then, for the last 35 years or so, Rick has been good for a smile or a laugh. I will always cherish his kind gentle spirit. Thank you and God bless. Jeffrey Lee.

It’s hard to put into words what it meant to know Rick. He had this incredible gift of catching you off guard with his goofy side—just when you thought things were serious, he'd drop a one-liner or pull a face that left everyone laughing. That was Rick light in the heavy moments.

What I’ll always carry with me is his can-do attitude. He brought this positive, no-complaints energy to everything he did. Being around him made the tough days easier and the good days even better. I'm truly grateful I got to experience his spirit, even if just for a short while.

We miss you, Rick. Thank you for being you.

I am so saddened to hear about the passing of Rick at such a young age too.  I am sending my sincere condolences to Henry, Susan, Dave & all the family  at this very sad & difficult time.   He was a compassionate, caring, devoted guy whom I had the pleasure of working with him & getting to know him while we worked closely together for the past 6 years in caring for his parents, Audrey & Henry .   We shared many a laugh & life stories in challenging times & support for each other in our caring roles for our families.  He will surely be missed by all!  He is in my thoughts & prayers on his journey home  as well as Henry and all the family whom I had the pleasure of working with & know.  Sending lots of love & big hugs to all.  Sorry that I can’t be at his celebration of life as I am still in Scotland but will be there in spirit.  Take care , love Marion

After one of Rick’s one liners! Godspeed my friend!

Fortunate to know the real Grandpa Smithy, Mike & the great crew over the years, Rick’s softness, care, and diligence to make things better is what I will remember most. We last laughed about eating Jack in the box tacos instead of the hospital smoothies,  even in his physical weakness, he exemplified grace. Rick was a simple man, because of his humble humor & knowledge, his character allured & allowed me to slow down, share in what & how he was doing , even if my stop in to Smittys was brief. Rick had time for me. God bless you brother-

OBITUARY

Richard Alan Kay

November 20, 1967 – June 16, 2025

El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley & Memorial Park

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