Wilson Alden Richey
Wilson Alden Richey, devoted father of two and founder and owner of multiple restaurants in the Charlottesville area, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 12th. Will was born March 28th, 1976 in Washington, DC, and spent his childhood in Rockville, MD. He lived most of his adult life in Charlottesville, considering himself a Virginian at heart. In addition to being an integral part of the restaurant community, Will played an active role in the revitalization of the downtown mall, seeking to provide a clean, well-lit place for all.
An adoring father, dependable friend and neighbor, loving brother, and son, Will was a proud member of the Rives family. He was an exceedingly generous friend; if he loved you, you knew it.
Will and his son, Alston Rives, shared a passion for the outdoors and music and loved hiking and traveling together. Will and his daughter, Marie Ruth, shared a love of working with their hands, creating art, and enjoying the rituals and routines of daily life.
In addition to his children and their mother, Lisa, Will is survived by his mother, Deborah Englert Richey and his siblings, Brett Richey (Debbie), Blair Richey (Rebecca), and Elizabeth Gawler. Will was the proud uncle of Kristen, Meg, Maggie Sue, Rives, Holland, Julia, and Bode. Will is predeceased by his father and friend, Franz Rives Richey.
Will’s numerous contributions to the Charlottesville restaurant community include Revolutionary Soup (Downtown), Revolutionary Soup (The Corner), The Wine Guild, Red Row Farm, The Whiskey Jar, The Alley Light, The Pie Chest, The Bebedero, Brasserie Saison, Café Frank, Duner’s, and Hogwaller Brewery. His management company, Ten Course Hospitality, supported Commonwealth Sky Bar and Draft, Milkman’s Bar, South & Central, Kama, and The Monticello Café.
Will insisted on doing everything by hand and relished the hard work that entailed. All who knew him knew that he was happiest entertaining family and friends, fussing over his heirloom tomatoes in his garden, reading poetry, and making Christmas magical.
There will be a public service at 11 a.m. Sunday, 17 December 2023 at the Code Building Irving Theater, 225 West Water Street, Charlottesville followed by a private burial. At 2 p.m., there will be a reception and celebration of life Vault Virginia, 300 E Main St, Charlottesville; it is open to all. In lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank or https://gofund.me/dc81005c to support the education fund for Wilson’s children.
Condolences may be shared with the family on the Tribute Wall.
Image of Will courtesy of Jen Fariello.
