Sergeant First Class Richard Michael Hunter

Rich was born on May 30, 1992, to Tammy Mudd in Burke County, North Carolina.

From ages 10-18, Rich grew up in Massachusetts where he was homeschooled by his mother, and enjoyed volunteering at the local Police department. After graduating from the Police Academy’s Explorer Program—Rich would later go on to participate in the program for 3 different states. Beyond policework, Rich had a lifelong passion for reporting and media —riding his bike to local incidents to document them and working alongside the local news. Rich’s dedication even got him accepted to attend videography courses at Harvard. Following high school graduation, Rich attended Liberty University before joining the United States Army in 2014.

During his distinguished military career, Rich excelled in every rank and position he was selected for, ultimately achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class. Along the way, he served as an intelligence analyst for numerous homeland security agencies, deployed to the Middle East, and served as a U.S. Army Drill Instructor—training, shaping, and forming new soldiers who will carry his legacy forward.

Richard’s love for media and reporting remained a lifelong passion. His ultimate dream was to create a trusted platform for meaningful journalism—one devoted to telling the stories of his community, uplifting local businesses, and covering the events that brought people together. This dream became a reality with the founding of Sierra Vista LIVE. Richard poured everything he had into his vision, investing not only in cameras, drones, and equipment, but also in building the foundation of a lasting enterprise, all in pursuit of his passion.

Beyond his professional life, Rich was a proud dog dad of a German Shepherd (Myko) and loved to travel, be outdoors, and photograph nature.

To say Richard had a big heart would be an understatement. He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back, always trying to see the good in everyone, and wanting to help. His smile and laugh could instantly light up a room. He encouraged others to find and master their own passions, always working to help others and his community succeed.

He is survived by his Mother, Tammy Mudd, and 3 Sisters, Heather, Bethany, and Hannah Yearwood.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 12:45 PM followed by the memorial service at 2:00 PM at Pendry’s Lenoir Funeral Home, 522 Wilkesboro Blvd, Lenoir, NC 28645.

In honor of Sergeant First Class Richard Hunter, the family requests donations in his honor be made to help prevent soldier suicide at https://StopSoldierSuicide.donordrive.com/campaign/SFCRichardHunter

Pendry's Lenoir Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Sergeant First Class Richard Michael Hunter.