Richard Eugene 'Willie' Wilson, Beloved Father and Grandfather, Passes Away at 79

The longtime Broncos fan and artist was remembered for his love of music, family, and teaching

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Richard Eugene 'Willie' Wilson, a longtime resident of Colorado and Utah, passed away on February 11, 2026 at the age of 79 after a battle with heart and renal failure. Willie was known for his love of music, art, and teaching, as well as his deep devotion to his family. He served in the Army as a Photo Lab Specialist and later worked at Western Cine in Denver, where he helped develop training films for the Denver Broncos, his favorite team. After moving to Utah in the 1990s, Willie converted to the LDS church and became a beloved teacher before retiring to spend more time with his three grandchildren.

Why it matters

Willie's life story reflects the changing cultural and social landscape of the American West over the past several decades. From his early days as a music-loving artist to his later career as an educator, Willie embodied the spirit of creativity, community, and family values that have long defined the Rocky Mountain region.

The details

Born in 1946 in Denver, Willie pursued his passions for music and art from a young age. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War era before returning home and meeting his wife Linda, with whom he had a daughter, Felicia. Willie worked at Western Cine, helping to develop training films for the Denver Broncos, his lifelong favorite team. After moving to Utah in the 1990s, Willie converted to the LDS church and earned a teaching degree, working as an educator until his retirement. In his later years, Willie doted on his three grandchildren, attending all of their sporting events and activities.

  • Willie was born on May 25, 1946.
  • He joined the Army on March 9, 1965 and was honorably discharged on February 15, 1968.
  • Willie and Linda were married on March 27, 1976.
  • They had their daughter Felicia in 1979.
  • Willie passed away on February 11, 2026.

The players

Richard Eugene 'Willie' Wilson

A longtime resident of Colorado and Utah, Willie was known for his love of music, art, and teaching, as well as his deep devotion to his family.

Linda Lee Byrge

Willie's wife of over 50 years, with whom he had a daughter and shared a lifelong love story.

Felicia Marie

Willie and Linda's only child, who carried on her father's love of music and art.

Keira, Riley, and Lorelai

Willie's three beloved grandchildren, who were the light of his life in his later years.

Denver Broncos

Willie's lifelong favorite football team, for whom he helped develop training films during his time at Western Cine.

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What they’re saying

“If I was in a plane flying over certain countries and they knew I was in it, they'd shoot it down.”

— Richard Eugene 'Willie' Wilson (castlecountryradio.com)

What’s next

A memorial service for Richard Eugene 'Willie' Wilson will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the Mitchell Funeral Home in Price, Utah, where friends and family will gather to celebrate his life.

The takeaway

Willie's life was a testament to the enduring power of family, community, and the arts in the American West. His story reminds us of the importance of pursuing our passions, embracing change, and cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones.