Dr. Richard G. Fayter Jr.

Dr. Richard G. Fayter Jr., a distinguished organic chemist, devoted family man, and lifelong adventurer, passed away on February 1, 2026, at the age of 88.

Born on November 26, 1937, in Woodbury, New Jersey, Richard dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge, innovation, and the people he loved most. His academic journey began at Temple University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, and continued at Brown University, where he received his PhD. These formative years ignited a lifelong passion for chemistry that defined both his career and his identity.

Richard was the inventor of 27 chemical patents, a testament to his intellect, creativity, and relentless curiosity. He served as Senior Research Director at Emery Henkel and later as President of the American Chemical Society, where he championed the vital role chemistry plays in everyday life. Even after officially retiring from Emery Henkel, his drive to learn never slowed—he became a computer programmer and consultant, traveling the world to lead SAP “go-live” implementations for years.

In addition to his professional achievements, Richard proudly served as an Army veteran, exemplifying dedication and service to his country.

Richard embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. A thrill seeker at heart, he was a mountain climber, hang glider, and avid racquetball player. He loved fishing nearly as much as he loved his family, beginning as a child serving as a mate on his father’s boat out of Barnegat Light and continuing throughout his life. He spent many years traveling to Canada on fishing trips with his son and close friends, and competed in deep-sea fishing tournaments out of Cape May, New Jersey.

He also cherished dancing “down the shore” in Somers Point, New Jersey, with his beloved Phyllis, where they won the South Jersey Jitterbug Championships in 1960 and 1962. Richard was passionate about music and filled his home with the sound of vinyl records, teaching his family to appreciate his impressive collection of 33s and 45s. He was an enthusiastic coin collector who loved educating his grandchildren about his finds, a devoted gardener known for his prized “Fayter’s Tomaters”, and a lifelong comedy fan who especially enjoyed movies and Saturday Night Live. Above all, he never tired of talking about chemistry— it was his great love and joy.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Phyllis Fayter, his steadfast partner in life; his daughter, Kristen L. (Kyle) McKenzie, and his son, Richard G. Fayter III; and his three adored grandchildren, Collin McKenzie, Caroline McKenzie, and Cameron Fayter. He is also survived by his sister, Pearl Bonsted. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard G. Fayter Sr. and Leah (née Kemery) Fayter.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Mueller Funeral Home, 6791 Tylersville Road, Mason, OH 45040. A Celebration of Life Service will immediately follow at 12:00 PM.

Though Dr. Richard G. Fayter Jr. has departed this life, his legacy of scientific excellence, boundless curiosity, deep love for family, and adventurous spirit will endure—an enduring reflection of a life lived fully and with joy.