Richard Paul Sacks

Richard Paul Sacks, M.D., passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 13, 2026, at the age of 89, surrounded by his loving children.

Born to Walter Sacks and Zelda Sacks (Rosenblum), Richard lived a life defined by service, compassion, intellect, humor, and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Richard earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry from Bucknell University before receiving his Doctor of Medicine degree from George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. He completed his radiology residency at Letterman Army Hospital in San Francisco, a city that would forever hold a special place in his heart.

He proudly served his country as a radiologist in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, including service in Vietnam, ultimately attaining the rank of Major before being honorably discharged in October 1970.

Following his military service, Richard established his radiology practice in Pennsylvania before later returning to George Washington University Hospital, where he served as a physician specializing in Nuclear Medicine and as a Clinical Professor of Radiology. Teaching brought him tremendous joy, and he took immense pride in mentoring and educating future generations of physicians. His impact extended far beyond the patients he cared for, living on in the countless students and colleagues whose lives and careers he helped shape.

While Richard was deeply accomplished professionally, his greatest pride was always his family. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend whose kindness, generosity, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Elizabeth Houck, Michael Sacks (Robin), and Bruce Sacks (Mayra); his sister, Honey Levick; and his cherished grandchildren, Austin Sacks (Ashley), Diana Sacks, Mitchell Sacks (Amy), Nathan Cole (Katelyn), Bruce Sacks, and Robert Sacks.

He was also blessed with the joy of great-grandchildren and is survived by his great-grandson, Camden Sacks, and step-great-grandson, Weston. Richard will be remembered for his kindness, his quick whit, his dedication to medicine, his service to his country, and the love he shared with his family, friends, colleagues, and students throughout his life.

His legacy lives on in the countless patients he cared for, the physicians he taught, and the family he loved so deeply.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to George Washington School of Medicine, Hospice Amedisys Home Health Care in Butler, Georgia, or NPR.