The WVU Institute of Sustainability and Energy Research is sad to announce the passing of our loving friend and co-worker Richard Walton, 47.
Walton died peacefully on July 11 at Mon Health Medical Center in Morgantown. He was diagnosed with an aggressive illness in late 2023.
Walton served as general and operations manager at WISER and was pivotal in driving the Institute's mission forward by overseeing day-to-day operations, exploring new research opportunities, and serving as a project manager on a wide range of energy and sustainability initiatives. He enjoyed working with staff in the WVU Research Office and faculty and staff across the WVU Morgantown Campus. He previously worked with Murray Energy as a landman for over 10 years and with Marion County as the planning director for five years.
“It’s hard to put into words what Richard has meant to me and to WISER,” Sam Taylor, WISER director, said. “He was a proud West Virginia native and WVU alum and was fiercely committed to working for the betterment of WVU and West Virginia. He helped create a wonderful culture among his colleagues and friends, and we will miss him. WISER, quite literally, wouldn’t be what it is without him.”
Visitation will be held today (July 15) from 10-11 a.m. at Ford Funeral Home, 215 East Main Street, Bridgeport. The funeral will begin at 11 a.m. with Reverend Thomas Horne officiating. Interment will follow at the Bridgeport Cemetery in Bridgeport.