05/08/2026
Today, our hearts are with Ricks’ family, friends, and fellow officers. We are keeping the our community as well as Chicago in our thoughts and prayers during this time. 💙
Richard “Rick” Joseph Coyle, 58, a devoted husband, beloved brother and uncle, and a lifelong public servant, passed away on April 30, 2026, at his home in Marion, Kentucky, surrounded by family.
Rick lived a life rooted in service and unwavering integrity. A Chicago native, Rick started his career at the Will County Sheriff’s Department. He then dedicated 28 years to the Chicago Police Department, where he served on the Special Operations and SWAT teams, earning the respect of colleagues for his loyalty and humility. After retiring from Chicago, Rick continued his calling in law enforcement, working with the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department in Kentucky where he served as a school resource officer. Known for his ability to connect with others, he was described as a “true community servant” with a “big heart” who made a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Rick’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Jami; his sister, Annamaria; his brother-in-law, Robert; his beloved nieces, Jessica, Marissa, and Amanda, along with their husbands, Matt and Andrew; and his mother-in-law, Marguerite. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Carmela, and father-in-law, Roy. He was a constant source of strength, humor, and guidance to them all and his presence will be deeply missed.
Rick will be remembered as courageous, compassionate and dependable. From the streets of Chicago to the close-knit community of Crittenden County, he gave his life to protecting others and strengthening the communities he called home. He lived with purpose and was deeply loved by all who had the privilege to know him. Rick’s legacy lives on- in the lives he protected, the community he strengthened, and the family he loved so deeply.
A celebration of Rick’s life will be held at 2PM Friday May 8 at Rocket Arena in Marion, KY, with private committal services to follow. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Chicago. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages support for organizations that honor fallen officers including Supporting Heroes at supportingheroes.org and the Chicago Police Memorial Fund at cpdmemorial.org
Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion, KY is in charge of arrangements.