Richard was 24 years old when he died at Belmont Fire Department in Charlotte‚ North Carolina. Richard’s friends had encouraged him to join our local fire department in Millers Creek‚ and when he did‚ the love of helping his fellow man grew even greater. Richard had two‚ two-year degrees from Wilkes Community College‚ the first in building construction and the second in respiratory therapy. He got his certifications in Firefighter I & II and Paramedic/EMT by going to various fire colleges on nights and weekends. Richard had always loved interacting with people. He never saw a stranger.

His chief at Millers Creek told him of an opportunity as a full- time firefighter with Belmont Fire Department. Richard applied and was hired. Richard had been promoted to lieutenant in the Millers Creek Fire Department. He was working part-time at Hugh Chatham Hospital in Elkin‚ part-time at Millers Creek Fire Department‚ and full-time at Belmont Fire Department. He was busy‚ to say the least.

During all this Richard always made time for his family and friends and to attend church at Calvary Freewill Baptist Church or at his girlfriend’s church. If anyone needed anything Richard was always there to lend a helping hand with whatever was needed. Richard leaves behind his family who love and miss him every day. He was not married and still lived at home with his parents‚ Gary and Darlene Miller.

Richard has one brother‚ Quincy‚ who is married to Kristain‚ and they have one son‚ Jase. Jase was almost five months old when Richard died‚ and Richard thought the world of him. Quincy and Richard were always very close brothers; they always made sure they had their time to do things whenever possible. They loved hunting and fishing together‚ playing golf‚ UFC fighting and just hanging out and being brothers.

Richard also had a very special young lady in his life that he loved very much. He and September Ward were planning to be married in two years when she completed grad school. We all love her‚ too‚ and feel so fortunate to still have her in our lives. She is very precious to all of us. He also leaves behind his grandparents‚ Paul and Ethel Miller‚ and several aunts‚ uncles and cousins; as well as a host of friends who are all very precious to us. Richard’s friends and co-workers have all stood with us and helped us in any way they can. Everyone has been a true comfort to us.

We are all blessed beyond measure to have had Richard for the short time we did.