Richard Walton Obituary
Obituary: Richard Walton, Beloved Colleague and Friend, Passes Away at 47
The WVU Institute of Sustainability and Energy Research (WISER) mourns the loss of our cherished colleague and friend, Richard Walton, who passed away peacefully on July 11 at Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown. Richard was 47 years old and had been battling a severe illness since late 2023.
Richard Walton served as the General and Operations Manager at WISER, playing an instrumental role in advancing the Institute’s mission. He was responsible for managing daily operations, identifying new research opportunities, and overseeing various energy and sustainability projects. His collaborative spirit was evident through his work with the WVU Research Office and his interactions with faculty and staff across the WVU Morgantown Campus. Prior to his tenure at WISER, Richard worked as a landman for Murray Energy for over a decade and served as the Planning Director for Marion County for five years.
Reflecting on Richard’s contributions, Sam Taylor, Director of WISER, stated:
“It’s hard to put into words what Richard has meant to me and to WISER. He was a proud West Virginia native and WVU alum, fiercely committed to the betterment of West Virginia University and West Virginia. Richard fostered a wonderful culture among his colleagues and friends, and his absence will be deeply felt. WISER, quite literally, wouldn’t be what it is without him.”
Visitation for Richard Walton will be held today, July 15, from 10-11 a.m. at Ford Funeral Home, located at 215 East Main Street, Bridgeport. The funeral service will commence at 11 a.m., officiated by Reverend Thomas Horne. Interment will follow at the Bridgeport Cemetery in Bridgeport.
Richard’s dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to his work and community have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.
WVU community mourns loss | E-News | West Virginia University
