Richard Jay, 100
Richard Jay, 100, a lifelong resident of the Highlands section of Lowell, decorated World War II veteran, entered into rest on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, following a period of declining health.
Born in Boston, MA, he was the beloved son of the late Phillip and Rebecca (Schwartz) Kaplan. Richard was a graduate of Lowell High School, Class of 1943. Shortly after graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Army. He spent three years in active combat in the European Theater during World War II.
Following his return home, Richard met the love of his life, Anita H. (Kendick) Jay, at a local dance for Jewish singles. Together they shared 60 years of marriage filled with devotion, love, and joy until her passing in November of 2011.
Richard worked as a planning engineer for the United States Navy for over 30 years. Much of his career was spent coordinating and planning repairs for aircraft carriers, primarily in the Boston and Portsmouth, NH Naval Shipyards.
He was a past member of Temple Beth El in Lowell. Richard enjoyed ballroom dancing with his wife and friends, and later in life found great happiness in life’s simple pleasures—spending time with family and friends and taking leisurely walks.
He is survived by his children, Ros Karas and her husband, Dr. Sumner Karas, of Palm Beach Gardens, FL; Randy Jay and his wife Barbara of Franklin, MA; Laurie Miranda and her husband Jack of Tyngsboro; Russell Jay and Ronald Jay, both of Chelmsford; and his son-in-law, Leo Tousignant of Chelmsford. He also leaves his beloved grandchildren, Jaclyn Staub, Geoffrey Karas, Frances Jay, Jack Miranda, Zachary Miranda, Mackenzie Miranda, Dakota Miranda, and Danielle McLeod; along with seven cherished great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his beloved wife Anita, Richard was predeceased by his daughter, Michelle “Shelly” Tousignant, and his siblings, Samuel Kaplan and Sylvia Goodman.
Per Richards request, burial and Shiva will be private. ARRANGEMENTS BY MORSE-BAYLISS FUNERAL HOME 978-458-6841. Guestbook at www.morsebaylissfuneralhome.com