Richard Daley Obituary

On November 5, 1935, in Phoenix, Arizona, Richard Daley was born at home to Cecelia and Henry Daley. Richard grew up surrounded by family and community in central Phoenix around 9th St and Washington/Monroe, where he made numerous lifelong friendships. He attended Immaculate Heart Elementary and later graduated from Phoenix Union High School in 1954. Shortly thereafter, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force, where he was stationed at Tachikawa Air Force Base in Japan for two years—an experience that broadened his horizons and deepened his appreciation for service and learning. While in Japan, he experienced climbing Mount Fuji! 

Upon returning home, Richard attended Phoenix College for two years before beginning work with the City of Phoenix Recreation Department. While working, he pursued higher education at Arizona State University and proudly graduated in 1968 with a degree in Education—the first in his family to do so. This milestone marked the start of a meaningful career dedicated to shaping young minds.

Richard married Gloria Tafoya in 1958 and they had three children, Kathy, Lori and Dicky.  They divorced in 1978. He was a wonderful, loving, caring, and giving father who taught us many valuable life lessons, including a strong work ethic, a passion for reading and learning, the importance of family, honesty and loyalty. 

He spent over two decades as an elementary school teacher in the Phoenix Elementary District, teaching at Monroe, Grant, Herrera, and Prep Academy—all schools in central Phoenix. Known for his patience, warmth, and unwavering commitment to his students, Richard retired in 1995 after 22 years of teaching. 

In 1984, Richard was introduced by his sister, 'Porky,' to his second wife, Lucie Valencia. The two married on Valentine's Day in 1985 and were inseparable ever since. They celebrated their 40th anniversary this year.

A true Arizonan at heart, Richard was a passionate supporter of local sports. Whether it was cheering on ASU or UofA, or following the Diamondbacks, Suns, and Cardinals, his love for Arizona teams was a constant joy in his life. In earlier years, Richard was often found listening to sports on KTAR radio when the games were not on tv. He also was an avid reader and enjoyed reading the crime novels by David Baldacci and others.

Richard was also deeply dedicated to his community. He was a proud member of American Legion Post 41 and a founding member of the Boys Club, established in 1947. During his teaching years, he was also devoted to the Jr. Achievement program. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lucie Daley; his children Kathy Rizo, Lorraine Fattore, and Richard Daley Jr.; and his stepchildren Vique Rojas, Sal Rojas, and Laura Rojas. He was a cherished grandfather to Michael, Bobby, Celia, Matt, Anthony and Gabby, and great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren (Marissa, Daniel, Dominic, RJ, Maggie and Leo). 

Richard was the second oldest of the Daleys. His father gave him the nickname of 'Wimpy.' Although Richard was definitely not wimpy, he did have a love for hamburgers. He joins  his brothers Henry (Popeye) and David (Mackey) Daley in heaven. He is survived by brother Robert Daley (Dukie); and 2 sisters, Sylvia Rodriguez (Verna) Flora Daley (Porky) and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. 
Richard's legacy of service, education, family and community lives on in all who knew and loved him. His memory will forever be a blessing—a testament to a life well-lived, rooted in love, family, dedication, and an enduring Arizona spirit. 

A service to honor Richard's life will be held at Tempe Mortuary on July 18, 2025 at 1:00 pm. He will later be laid to rest at St. Francis Cemetery.