Richard C. Gainey Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Richard Charles (Ricky) Gainey was born in the city of Pittsburgh on October 5, 1953 to the late Chauncey Elmer Gainey and Frances Thornton Gainey. He was affectionately known by family and friends as "Bigums". He was a graduate from Schenley High School in 1972. There he played football as a defensive and offensive lineman #75. Richard was employed as an Ironworker for many years and though he worked for numerous companies, his longevity was with Dynamic Builder's Inc. Richard was in part responsible for the construction of Heinz Field, PNC Park, and many of Pittsburgh's bridges. Many who knew Ricky would agree that he had a twin…his one and only daughter Malaya. Ricky would tell you in a heartbeat that his greatest accomplishment was his pride and joy, his heart Malaya. Whether Ricky was hanging out at one of his favorite spots in the Hill District, going to the store, attending an event…he had Malaya right there with him. Since Malaya was a baby, they have remained inseparable, they were indeed "two peas in a pod", he was her "G" in "Go", and she was his heartbeat in human form. Richard was preceded in death by brother, Thomas C. Gainey. He leaves to mourn his memory, brothers, Melvin Thornton (Sandy) of California, Chauncey Elmer Gainey and his sister Darlene Gainey-Craig (Frederick) of Pittsburgh. His Nephew's, Edward C. Gainey (Michelle), Michael Gainey of Pittsburgh. Michael Thornton (Shannon), and the late, Ronald Thornton (Patrice) of California. His nieces, Shade' Mallory of Virginia, Corrie Gainey-Bellinger (Michael) of New Mexico, Tara Gainey, Erica Gainey-Cameron (Michael), Justine Gainey of Pittsburgh, and Nakita Gainey of California. He was blessed with a host of cousins and friends. If you knew Ricky, you know he is in heaven being Ricky. Can you see him addressing the angels with, "Dig this here", or telling the angels one of his stories over and over…and over again? Ricky will be missed by so many because there will never be another like him. His personality, his humor, his kindness, his way with words, his instinct to say whatever came to his mind at any given moment (whether it was appropriate or not) will be forever etched in our hearts. Thank you, Ricky, for the memories and that smile of yours that will never be forgotten.

Richard C. Gainey

October 5, 1953 - June 20, 2019