Richard Michael Walton, 47, of Bridgeport, passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at MonGeneral Hospital in Morgantown. He was born March 5, 1977 in Clarksburg, WV a son of Richard David and Barbara A. Woodward Walton. Richard was a Christian by faith. He was a graduate of Bridgeport High School, as well as WVU where he earned his Bachelors’ degree in Political Science and went on to earn his Masters’ Degree. He currently worked with WVU Research Corporation where he served as program director for the past two years. He previously worked with Murray Energy as a landman for over ten years, and with Marion County as the Planning Director for over five years. Richard was a family man. He was very close with his parents, and often spoke and/or saw them daily. The took many vacations together, and he always made sure they had what they needed. Richard was competitive, intelligent, and loved a good game of poker. He had a close group of friends with whom he enjoyed camping and fishing, he could be ready at a moment’s notice for a day on the river. Richard was an avid Washington Commanders football fan, formerly the Redskins, where he was a season ticket holder. He was preceded in death by his brother, Kevin David Walton. The family would like to thank the nursing staff and doctors of both United Hospital Center and MonGeneral Select Specialty for their special care provided to Richard. The family has entrusted the arrangements to Ford Funeral Home, 215 East Main Street, Bridgeport, WV, 26330. Friends and family may visit on Sunday, July 14, 2024 from 2PM until 6PM and on Monday, July 15, 2024 from 10AM until 11AM. The funeral will be held in the funeral home on Monday at 11AM with Reverend Thomas Horne officiating. Interment will follow at the Bridgeport Cemetery in Bridgeport. Online condolences may be made to www.fordfuneralhomes.com.