Richmond, Virginia
Michael B. Huntley, 51, of Richmond, died Tuesday, September 28, 2004 after a gallant battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). The founder and principal of Huntley Design, he was a 1980 Magna Cum Laude graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University's School of the Arts. Michael also taught as adjunct faculty in VCU's Department of Communication Arts and Design. A veteran of the United States Navy, Michael served his country aboard the USS San Diego from 1971 to 1974. Michael is survived by his life partner of 17 years, William A. "Bill" Harrison Jr. He is also survived by his mom, Allene Cook Huntley; and sisters, Ginny H. Virts and her husband, Tony, Julie H. Sunser, Susan H. Yates, Nancy H. Mowers and Shirley Huntley, all of New York state. He is also survived by five nieces and four nephews. Michael was preceded in death by his father, Bernard L. Huntley. The family will receive friends Thursday, September 30, 2004 at the Bliley Funeral Homes' Central Chapel, 3801 Augusta Ave., from 6 to 8 p.m. A graveside service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, October 1, 2004 at Hollywood Cemetery. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Equality Virginia, 6 North Sixth Street, Suite 401, Richmond, Va. 23219, www.equalityvirginia.org or the ALS Association, 615 South Frederick Ave., Suite 308, Gaithersburg, 20877 Md., www.ALSinfo.org
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
I just recently was informed of Mike's death. He was such a good guy and so talented. It was an honor for me to paint his portrait. He always shared that he thought the painting captured his essence. I feel fortunate to have known him.
- Malinda Evans
Malinda Evans
June 14, 2022 | Manassas, VA | Friend
Michael was a kind and sweet soul. I will always remember his calm demeanor. Michael did not require a lot of words to say what he needed to say. You knew from his smile and expressions. I will always remember him for his constant projects. He was always painting a room, setting a patio or designing a new garden. He was able to accomplish in a month, it seems, what would take others years to accomplish. What I admire the most, however, is what he was able to give to Bill! Our thoughts and...
Gary Ferrell and Mark Schwedhelm
October 04, 2004 | Pittsburg, CA
Bill,
I feel so privileged to have known and worked with Michael. You are both like members of our family, so I feel a tremendous loss. May the memories of Michael's gentle, patient, warm countenance guide us in the coming days.
All my love,
Ann Meade
Ann Meade Besenfelder
October 04, 2004 | Montreal, QC
Dear Bill,
I worked with Mike at Philip Morris. We even went to New York City on one of our assignments together... saw "Chorus Line" and Michael let me pay. I loved him. He was such a talented and loving person. I am sorry that I didn't hear about Mike's death until I returned home yesterday from a trip. I was attending a women's retreat. Cathy Easter had phoned my husband to tell him about Mike because she was afraid it would upset me. I also have ALS. Mike was a true friend...
Beverly Nicola
October 04, 2004 | Chesterfield, VA
Bill,
I lost my life partner to ALS in 1995. She lived 8 years with the disease and I am just now coming to grips with the loss. If you need someone to talk to, you can reach me at 515-7321.
Cheryl Belcher
October 04, 2004 | Glen Allen, VA
Bill,
Having lost a family member to ALS, we know how heartbreaking the process can be. The loss of a partner is a loss for which there are no words. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Paul and Barbara Kruger
October 03, 2004 | Philadelphia
Dear Bill,
From the beginning, your relationship with Michael was deep, committed, and one to celebrate. We are very sorry for your loss of such a gentle, wonderful partner. Our sympathy to the rest of his family too.
Kathy Benham and Chris Clarke
October 02, 2004 | Richmond, VA
Sorry about Michael. Will miss talking with you and it was a pleasure meeting you and Michael sisters.
Mariann Craigs
HBPC Program Sup Asst
Mariann Craigs
October 02, 2004 | Richmond, VA
Bill,
I am so sorry to hear this.
I share your loss.
Paul
paul smith
October 01, 2004 | Richmond, VA
