MULLENS, W.Va. — A former member of the House of Delegates and State Senate has died. Richard Browning served the residents of Wyoming County for many years in both chambers.
Browning was first elected to the House in 1988 and served until 1996. He was elected again in 2000 and served through 2008 when he ran for state Senate. He was elected and served in the Senate from 2008 – 2012.
“I think Richard’s legacy is that he was very selfless,” said Rick Staton, who also represented Wyoming County in the House of Delegates for many years and served alongside Browning.
Together Staton and Browning were able to get a lot of projects accomplished on behalf of their constituents.
“We were a two person caucus. We ate dinner every Sunday at Fazio’s to plan the week. He was on Finance and I was on Judiciary and we kept track of the major stuff that was going on to impact the state and the district,” said Staton.
Browning was known for his work at the State Capitol primarily in the areas of education and economic development. Those were his background having served as a teacher and principal in Wyoming County Schools. Later, he would serve as the Executive Director of the Coalfields Expressway Authority.
“Everybody who served with him, even if they didn’t agree with him, would tell you he was a pleasure to work with,” said Staton.
Gov. Patrick Morrisey said Browning was an effective lawmaker.
“I am very saddened to hear of the loss of former West Virginia legislator Richard Browning. Richard spent nearly 20 years serving the people of our state in the House of Delegates and State Senate as a dignified leader and an unwavering advocate for his community in Wyoming County. My prayers are with his wife, family, and loved ones during this difficult time.”
The state Democratic Party issued the following statement on Brown’s passing:
The West Virginia Democratic Party today expressed its deep sorrow at the passing of former State Senator Richard Browning, a dedicated public servant whose life was marked by integrity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the people of West Virginia.
Senator Browning served his community and this state with distinction, earning the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle for his principled leadership and his belief that public service is about improving the lives of others. Throughout his career, he was known for putting people first and for working tirelessly to strengthen his community and our state.
Former Senate President Jeff Kessler, who served alongside Senator Browning, reflected on his legacy and character: “Richard Browning was the finest and most principled man I have ever known. He was selflessly devoted to making his community and our state a better place. He was not only a respected colleague but a trusted friend. I was honored to know him. My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, family and friends who loved him.”
“Senator Browning’s legacy is one of decency, service, and quiet strength,” said West Virginia Democratic Party Chair Mike Pushkin. “He leaves behind a model of leadership rooted in humility and care for others. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.”
The West Virginia Democratic Party extends its deepest condolences to the Browning family and joins communities across the state in honoring the life and service of Senator Richard Browning.
Browning earned a degree from Marshall University in 1974. He completed a Masters Degree at West Virginia University in 1984 and then an additional master’s degree from the West Virginia University College of Graduate Studies in 1989.
Browning was 73.