Ophthalmic industry veteran, ophthalmic publishing leader, dynamic business executive and mentor, Richard Bay, passed away on December 2 after a long illness. He was 67 years old.

Mr. Bay, longtime publisher of Review of Optometry, and, later, founder of Review of Ophthalmology, part of the Jobson Optical Group, was a highly visible executive in the field. To those in the industry and the professions he served, he will be remembered for his unique array of skills and dedication to exceeding the expectations of his customers, so many of whom would become fast friends.

As Marc Ferrara, CEO of the Information Services division of Jobson Medical Information, noted, “Rick had been battling serious illness the last couple of years, but remained committed and active in his role here at JMI and the Review Group. He embodied such a rare combination of traits: business savvy, steadfast loyalty, competitive fierceness, impenetrable integrity and a personal warmth that made us all feel so very special when we were with him. He will be deeply missed for so many reasons, but mostly because he was our true friend, mentor and leader.”

A lifelong resident of Philadelphia, Mr. Bay graduated from John Bartram High School in 1962. He started his career in the mailroom at Chilton Publishing Company in West Philadelphia, while attending Temple University. He also served his country as a member of the U.S. Army Reserves. He rose to the position of vice president at Chilton Publishing, at the helm of more than 40 publications. After the 1999 acquisition of the Reviews by Jobson, Mr. Bay was named publisher and president of the Review Group.

Respected for his knowledge, loyalty and generosity, Rick was a mentor to many and will be best remembered for his devotion to his family and friends, his keen wit and sense of humor. Commented Christopher Glenn, editorial director of the Review of Ophthalmology Group, “Many optometrists and ophthalmologists who were served by the Review publications may never have crossed paths with Rick. But his respect for their skills, education and dedication to improving patients’ lives was equaled by his respect for the integrity of the editorial content of the publications he managed.”

Mr. Bay met the love of his life, Jeanne Kirk, while they were in high school and the couple celebrated 43 years of marriage this past June.
A life celebration is planned for a future date. The family has indicated that services will be private.

Contributions in his memory may be made to: Head and Neck Cancer Alliance, P.O. Box 21688, Charleston, SC 29413, or at HeadandNeck.org.