Michael C. Richard

Michael Charles Richard was remembered for a bright curiosity, a generous heart, and an adventurous spirit. Born July 20, 1975, in Metairie, Louisiana, Michael moved to Hoover, Alabama with his family in 1980 and grew into a thoughtful, creative man who loved to learn how things worked. From childhood experiments in a self-made “lab” to a lifelong interest in computers, he followed his curiosity into a degree in Network Engineering from Virginia College and a career in technology. Colleagues remembered him as someone who enjoyed his work and was well-liked at Amazon, where he was employed.

Outside of work, Michael spent much of his free time caring for others. He volunteered with and served people experiencing homelessness—sharing food, blankets, and companionship—and was known among family and friends for his compassionate nature and willingness to help those in need. He also found joy in exploring the unusual and documenting those discoveries; Michael built a following online as an urban explorer who recorded visits to abandoned places and shared them with viewers on platforms such as TikTok.

Michael was one of six children, and he is survived by his parents, Max and Eileen Richard; five siblings — Max Richard Jr., Carin Richard Kiser (Kevin Kiser), Mark Richard, Kelly Richard Sides (Larry Sides), and Matthew Richard (Courtney Richard) — and numerous nieces and nephews who cherished him. Those who knew him recall his radiant smile, contagious laugh, and the easy humor that brightened gatherings.

His funeral was held January 5, 2022, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Hoover, Alabama, with interment in the parish columbarium. Family requested that memorials, in lieu of flowers, be directed to the Prince of Peace Building Fund. Michael’s life is remembered for its warmth, curiosity, and steady care for others—qualities that left a lasting impression on his family, friends, coworkers, and the many people who followed his online adventures.