Richard Emanueil Wilmoth, Jr.

Richard Emanueil Wilmoth Jr., beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Friend went home to be with the Lord on May 9, 2024, in Leesburg, Virginia. He passed away peacefully surrounded by the love and comfort of his family at the age of 77.

Richard was born on January 17, 1947, in Simpson, West Virginia. He married his wife of 58 years, Carole Wilmoth in 1966. At the age of 17, Richard E. Wilmoth Jr. enlisted in the United States Air Force. He valued his 22 years of service highly and attained the rank of E-7 Master Sergeant (MSGT). He was a Vietnam Veteran and earned many medals and citations including the Presidential Unit Citation, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Organizational Excellence Award along with Expert Marksmanship Ribbon and many additional prestigious honors. After serving his country, he continued his career with the Department of Defense and worked for several honorable companies throughout Northern Virginia and the surrounding areas.  

Richard was a dedicated servant of the Lord, serving as a Deacon and Men's Ministry Leader at Crossroads Baptist Church in Leesburg, VA. His commitment to his faith and the fellowship of his church was unwavering, touching many lives through his service and leadership.

His dedication to his country was matched only by his love for the outdoors. He found joy in raising and tending to his chickens, and he had a deep passion for hunting, fishing, and gardening. To say he had a green thumb was an understatement, as he took immense pride in nurturing his plants and creating beautiful gardens.

Richard was also known for his incredible sense of humor.  He had a unique talent for cracking jokes and making others laugh and smile. His infectious laughter and lighthearted spirit brightened the days of everyone around him. He was known to his grandchildren as “OPA”. He loved to bake and spend quality time making lasting memories with them.

Richard is preceded in death by his mother Lucille Virginia Wilmoth. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carole Wilmoth; his two daughters, Christine Higdon and her husband Christopher Higdon, and Catrina Eisler and her husband Eric Eisler; his two cherished grandchildren, Caitlynn Higdon, and Elijah Eisler; brother Ernest George Wilmoth; and sister Dinah Dell Greene.

On, June 1, 2024, at 1pm a Memorial Service to celebrate Richard’s life will be held at Crossroads Baptist Church. 850 Edwards Ferry Rd NE, Leesburg, VA 20176. He will be laid to rest, at a later date with Honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

His family has asked in lieu of flowers that a donation be made in his name to:

Crossroads Baptist Church - 850 Edwards Ferry Rd NE, Leesburg, VA 20176

https://iglesia-biblica-bautista-emanuel-of-leesburg-448749.churchcenter.com/giving

Richard’s legacy of faith, service, and love for his family and the outdoors will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall

mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they

shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31