Remembering the Life and Legacy of Richard David Price

A Life Forged in Resilience: Remembering Richard David Price

From the moment he entered the world on November 21, 1970, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Richard David Price proved he was a fighter. Born without an esophagus, he underwent emergency surgery—a remarkable medical achievement for its time—setting a tone of perseverance that would define his entire life.

Born to Marcia Hinckley Willes Price and Walter David Price, Richard spent his early years in the Avenues of Salt Lake City before his family moved to Sandy, Utah. Earning his diploma at West Jordan High School, he also attained Eagle Scout status and fulfilled a proselytizing mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth region. His faith remained a core pillar of his existence, anchored by a strong testimony of Jesus Christ and a deep appreciation for His teachings.

Richard Combined Business Ambition with Artistic Passions

Ambition defined his early adulthood. In his twenties, Richard launched his own mortgage company, showcasing an early aptitude for business and independence. His intellectual curiosity never faded, ultimately leading him to earn a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology followed by a master’s degree in business and marketing.

Remembering the Life and Legacy of Richard David Price

Yet, beneath his professional pursuits, Richard viewed himself primarily as an artist. He carried a lifelong love for storytelling, the written word, and the dream of writing comic books. Writing served as his personal compass for making sense of the world, preserving memories, and journaling experiences. As a published author and a passionate advocate for mental health, he understood the weight of isolation and worked continuously to ensure others felt seen, valued, and understood.

On September 1, 1999, he married Airaka (Espinoza), with their marriage solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. Though they later parted ways, their shared path brought him the greatest joy of his life: his children, Laurissa Nichole West and Logan David Price. He constantly encouraged them to embrace their passions, explore their unique gifts, and make room in their lives for the things that made their hearts come alive.

Richard Leaves Behind Family and Fond Memories

Those who knew Richard often remember his unmistakable personality. His boisterous laughter and dry, witty sense of humor could instantly shift the energy of a room, lightening heavy moments while revealing a deeply compassionate heart.

Mourning his passing are his loving parents, Walter David Price and Marcia Hinckley Willes Price, alongside his children, Logan David Price and his partner, Sydney Sorensen, as well as Laurissa Nichole West alongside her husband, Garrison West, in addition to his ex-wife, Airaka Hayes. He also leaves behind his siblings—Stephanie Price, Rob Price and his wife Monica, Melinda Bryant and her husband Chris, Lissa Cutler and her husband Steve, and Megan Ford and her husband Abe—along with many cherished nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents.

Family and friends will gather to honor his memory on Monday, November 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Larkin Sunset Lawn, located at 2350 E. 1300 S. in Salt Lake City, with a viewing held prior from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m., according to Larkin Mortuary. Interment will follow at Larkin Sunset Lawn, with online viewing available via Zoom for those unable to attend in person.