Richard Emmons

Richard Emmons

July 07, 1943 - August 27, 2026

Obituary

Richard C. (Dick) Emmons 83, of Billings MT passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, August 27, 2026, due to complications from Parkinsons disease at the Billings Clinic hospital. Dick was born July 7, 1943, in Billings, MT, to Raymond and Irene Emmons. He attended Billings Public Schools, graduating from Billings Senior High in 1961. He completed some college courses at what was then Eastern Montana College.

In his younger years Dick started his career working as a bicycle newspaper carrier. In 1959, at the young age of 16, he began working part-time at Reiter's Marina and later worked part-time at a Billings Body Shop, sanding and prepping cars for painting.

His career working for the U.S. Postal Service began in 1966, first as a distribution clerk, then working his way up to statistical programs manager at his retirement in 2003. Dick was a very dedicated employee, during his career in the Postal Service, he accumulated over 3000 hours of unused sick leave.

Dick entered the Army National Guard in 1964 as part of the 163rd armored Cavalry. He was honorably discharged after 6 years in 1970.

On October 25, 1969, Dick married the love of his life, Diana Reiter in Billings, MT. They shared 57 years together. To this union, two sons were born; Richard Jr. and Brian.

Dick loved classic cars and street rods, he loved muscle cars in particular. He attended many car shows and related events. After retirement, he built three hot rod/street rods and lovingly restored his 1970 Chevelle muscle car. You could always find him washing, waxing or doing car maintenance, even though the disease limited his ability to do so.

In his earlier years, Dick built many trailers including horse, flatbed and utility trailers inside his garage.

He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and a devoted son and brother. He was a man of few words, and he greatly treasured his friends.

He enjoyed simple pleasures over extravagance. Our family enjoyed annual snowmobile trips to Yellowstone Park, family camping and fishing trips, visiting the West Coast states and train trips.

Dick enjoyed Saturday morning coffee and donuts at the shop "garage" with the car guys. He was a member of the AACA Automobile club and Triers Car Club.

Dick is survived by his wife Diana, Sons Rich Jr. and Brian (Cheryl). Grandsons Jace Emmons and Nathan Bellin. Sister-in-Law Gloria Roll, and Mary Ann Emmons. His nieces include Theresa Roll, Lisa (Robb) Laird, Marva (Tom) Quigley, Holly (Bill) Reitler and Renae' Eller. His nephews include Curt (Melanie)Thompson, Terry Roll and Robbie (Abby) Emmons.


He is proceeded in death by his father and mother, his brothers Robert and Larry, and his sister Candice. His Sister-in-law Dorothy Thompson, and Brothers-in- law Marvin Thompson and Dave Albin.

Dick, you were always our guiding light.

Funeral Services are on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Pilgrim Congregation Church, 409 So. 36th Street. Burial will be at Mountview Cemetery. A light reception will follow at the Church after the Burial ceremony.

The family would like to thank the staff at Billings Clinic for the wonderful care they gave Dick during his illness. We would also like to thank his primary care doctor, Dr. Duval, and his neurologist, Dr. Echeverri.

Memorials can be made to the charity of your choice.

Events

12
Funeral Service
Sat Sep 12, 2026 @ 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM MDT
Pilgrim Congregational Church • 409 S 36th St, Billings, MT 59101
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