Richard Thomas Keith Sr.

Richard Keith Sr., 82, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away on Saturday, September 9, 2023.

He was born on September 4, 1941 in Louisville, Kentucky to the late Elmer and Fannie (Phillips) Keith. He is also preceded in death by his son, Richard "Richie" Thomas Keith, II, sister, Arlene Meridith and brother, Timothy "Timmy" Keith.

Richard's true love was music and his saxophone. He was an incredible saxophone player and friend to his numerous bands and fellow musicians. His 60 year professional music career included early years with the Monarchs, many years with Polo and more than 20 years with The Tymes Band. He was a quiet, one-of-a-kind, "soul man" who entertained thousands over the years. His specialty was the sax, but he could be persuaded to sing and play any number of other instruments. In addition to professional gigs, he also shared his talent with several different church groups over the years.

On occasion, fellow musicians commissioned Richard to record on their professional recorded tracks. Even in his free time, he enjoyed jam sessions with his son, Ritchie. Just recently he took up a new hobby, karaoke. He loved to karaoke with his grandson Matthew and his friends. Just prior to his passing, Richard was able to play one last song on the sax accompanied by his granddaughter, Amber on keyboard.

His music career began in high school. Richard was a graduate of Clarksville High School, in Clarksville, Indiana.

Richard was a long-time employee of Ford Motor Company at Louisville's Assembly Plant on Fern Valley Road. He was a loyal Ford man and only drove Ford vehicles. Also, a Mr. Fix It, Richard was known to build his own computer, fix any appliance, and once fixed his Ford with a juicy fruit gum wrapper.

His wife, Pat, was his biggest fan. She accompanied him to numerous band jobs. They spent a lot of time going to yard sales and working on houses. They enjoyed 35 years together, and were married for 29 years. It meant the world for Pat to still be holding his hand at the very end.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Margaret Patricia "Pat" Keith, three sisters, Nancy Buffin (Charles), Vanessa Keith (Eugene Cook), Benita Sharp (Eddie), brother, Michael Keith (Linda), first wife, Wanda Keith, two grandchildren, Matthew Keith, Amber McCoy (Seth), two great-grandchildren, Nevaeh McCoy, Levi McCoy, step-son, Michael Burns (Judy), step-daughter, Mindy Burns-Haws, four step-grandchildren, Dominick Burns, Veronica Tingle (Trey), Bailey Haws, John Carter Haws and three step-great-grandchildren, Luxe, Remi and Irie Burns. Richard is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and beloved dogs, Donnie and Marie.

Visitation will be from 10:00am until the time of funeral service at 1:00 pm on Thursday, September 14, 2023 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (235 Juneau Drive Louisville, KY 40243).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to your favorite charity in Richard's memory.

To share a memory of Richard or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.