GILLYARD, Richard E., Jr., age 56, formerly of Chesterfield County, passed away on February 12, 2022 in West Orange, N.J.

He graduated from Manchester High School and earned a Bachelor of Music Education from VCU and a Master of Music in Voice Performance from The New England Conservatory of Music. As a classical tenor, he performed extensively as a soloist and with organizations like the New York City Opera Chorus, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Chorus and the New England Spiritual Ensemble. He directed the UCC Ringers at Union Congregational Church in Montclair, N.J. and was a member of the Jersey Jubilation Handbell Choir in Ridgewood, N.J.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Gloria H. Gillyard. He is survived by his father, Richard Sr.; his sisters, Cassandra and Jacqueline; his nieces, Sydney and Lauren; and a host of relatives and friends; including a special friend, Alicia Briceland.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Christine's Kitchen in West Orange, N.J. or the It Gets Better Project.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Feb. 17, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Gillyard

Sponsored by Shook's Cedar Grove Funeral Home, Inc..

19 Entries

Robin Harper

December 12, 2023

Richard was a wonderful person. He brought joy to me and managed to lift up my spirits when I was down. He had a lot of conversations during our power walks during our lunch breaks at work. I miss my dear friend and colleague. Please know that he will live in my heart for many years to come. He was a special person. I miss you my dear friend. Rest in peace. Love Robin

Diane Bentley

February 10, 2023

I feel blessed to have known you and that we were friends. Blessings to your family & friends who were enriched by your spirit.
I will recognize your laughter when next we meet.

Robin Harper

February 10, 2023

I miss you Richard. You always had a smile on your face and always brightened up my day. I remember our power walks and conversations. You were a special person and I will always remember you my dear friend. I will cherish my beautiful memories of you. Thank you for your friendship. RIP

Audrey Burnett-Young

March 1, 2022

My sincere thoughts and prayers are with Richards family and friends. He was such a pleasure to know and will be greatly missed. Richard Keep singing as you are at peace with the angels.

Robin HARPER

February 27, 2022

Richard was a wonderful and kind person with a big heart. I am heartbroken about his passing, however, he must be singing with the angels. RIP my dear friend.

Diane Bentley

February 27, 2022

Your laugh, your smile, your voice spoke to my heart. With kindness and love your impact continues.

Sharman Nittoli

February 25, 2022

i will remember sitting next to Richard in choir, listening to his beautiful, rich tenor and laughing at his spontaneous sarcastic humor. A truly kind and loving man.

Dianne Wilkerson

February 24, 2022

My prayers are with you and the family. Peace and Love

Barbara Ross and John Bullough

February 23, 2022

Richard was deeply loved by the community of Union Congregational Church. We enjoyed singing in the choir with him and will miss his positive presence.

Isaac and Lee

February 18, 2022

With Deepest Sympathy These words are filled with thoughts and understanding, and more than anything else, with hope that each day ahead will bring a measure of comfort.

Sandra Ross

February 18, 2022

May your hearts be filled with peace knowing he's with his heavenly father and I will keep you in my prayers.

Cheryl Ross

February 18, 2022

May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as we celebrate a life well lived. I will miss his melodious voice. Rest in the arms of your heavenly father.

Maggie Barbetta-Jones

February 18, 2022

A kind and warm person, a beautiful voice and spirit - may memory of him give peace.

Sharon and Linward Loving

February 18, 2022

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. We are here for you!!

Patricia Jones Scott

February 18, 2022

On behalf of the Armstrong High School class of 1963, we extent our most profound sympathy to the father of Richard, Jr. Please know , your classmates pray for comfort to you and your family during this time. It is our prayer that God hold you in the palm of His hands and give you that peace the surpasses all understanding.

ANDREA ROBINSON HERCULES

February 17, 2022

My sincere condolences to the entire family. Richard was my high-school classmate, neighbor, and friend. May he rest in Peace.

Paul Berkley

February 17, 2022

So sorry about this. Richard was one of my best friends in high school, and although we didn´t see each other much in recent years, whenever we talked it was just like yesterday. He is a true friend. God bless his family and friends.

Mark and Noel Wilson and Family

February 17, 2022

Richard, you were a special part of our family. It was our honor and privilege to share the baptism of our twins with you. We miss your warm greetings and big hugs. Our heartfelt condolences to all of Richard's family and friends. Heaven is blessed with your presence. Sing on.

Jean Brown

February 17, 2022

I am so sorry to hear of this loss. I went to high school with Richard. Such an intelligent, soft-spoken guy belying enormous musical talent; but I remember him even more for the kindness he showed to everyone. We need more people like Richard among us.

Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results