Richard F. Huff

Richard F. Huff departed this life on February 14, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his father, Horace Albert Huff; his mother, Maxine Vallette Huff; and his nephew, Travis Huff.

Richard was born in Hays, Kansas, and during his early years lived in Stockton, Kansas, and Saint Joseph, Missouri. After his father joined the U.S. Army, Richard became an Army brat and attended school in Giessen, Germany, Arlington, Virginia, Claremont, California, and graduated from Leilehua High School, Hawaii. After graduation, he followed his family to Japan and lived there for a little over a year, until he joined the U.S Air Force. He then earned his bachelor's degree in public administration at the University of Arizona, in Tucson, Arizona, and his master's degree in Social Welfare from Arizona State University, in Tempe, Arizona. Richard then entered the U.S. Army, as a First Lieutenant, and was stationed in Germany. He transitioned from the Army to the Civil Service, and continued to live in Germany for a total of 18 years. Richard was always proud of his service in the Air Force and his 26 year career with the Department of Army serving in a number of line, staff, and executive positions, as a Medical Service Corps officer (6 years) and federal civil servant, providing executive leadership for managing large complex organizations primarily in Europe.

After retiring from the federal service, he pursued his dream to earn his Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration at the Wilder School, Virginia Commonwealth University, where he actively taught as an Associate Professor of Public Policy and Administration until his passing.

Richard was devoted, loving, patient, understanding, and the kindest and most considerate father and husband. As a devoted husband, he was his wife's rock, her soulmate, and the love of her life for over 30 precious and wonderful years, where his memory lives on in every beat of her heart.

As a devoted father, he was caring, patient, understanding, and always took the time to listen and make the children feel heard and understood, without passing judgment. He loved his family above everything else.

Richard was not only a dedicated professor and mentor, but also a generous and welcoming presence to all who knew him or who sought his guidance. His office was always open with a fresh pot of coffee and plenty of mugs, inviting hours of conversation on classes, current events, intellectual growth, and future career opportunities. He was a patient listener who never criticized but instead offered thoughtful suggestions to illicit a student's best work. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering support made a lasting impact on all who were privileged to know him.

Richard was also a music connoisseur, history buff, loved to travel, loved Germany, was interested in and understood various cultures, and had a wonderful sense of humor.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 30 wonderful years, Donna Huff; daughters, Andrea Huff and Angela Huff; son, Jesse Huff (Isabelle); grandchildren, Noelle, Corinne, Grey, Noah, and Logan; brother, Stephen Huff (Michelle); dear nieces and nephews, Jason Huff (Jen), Stephen Huff (Alyssa), and Mariah Slocum (Kurt); great-nephews, Josh, Travis, and Luke; mother-in-law, Marianne Smith; and his four-legged best friend, Charlie, who misses him dearly.

The family would like to provide a special mention to Leanne Donathan-Studevant, whose encouragement, laughter, and unwavering loyalty, love, and support brightened our lives. We are forever touched by her kindness, support, and friendship.

A private family celebration of life will take place at a later date.

"I'll remember you. When I've forgotten all the rest. You to me were true. You to me were the best."

- Bob Dylan

"That man is a success-who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it; who has never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had."

- Author Unknown