Richard Greer, known to most as simply “Doc,” passed away early Wednesday morning after a 13-month battle with pancreatic cancer, with an original diagnosis of only six months to live. His wife and family were at his side. 

Richard ran the Umatilla Drug Store for several years, and was well known throughout the community for his infectious smile, kind hearted words and selfless deeds. 

In 2022, Richard published his first book, “Crossing Paths, Finding Hope.” It was a collection of miraculous stories he’d witnessed during his time in the drug store, beginning with his own journey of a terminal diagnosis. He was only given 60 days to live…more than 10 years ago. His mission simply wasn’t finished yet. 

Last February, on Valentine’s Day, he was once again given a terminal diagnosis. Although he fought hard, he spent his remaining days telling everyone he could about his faith in Christ. 

His unwavering hope was a feature topic in Healthy Living Magazine last September, which can be found here –> https://healthylivingcf.com/richard-doc-greer-finds-hope-amid-a-terminal-diagnosis-twice/   

Details regarding a memorial service will be announced in the coming days.

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That was the formal story. However, there are people in this world that touch your lives so greatly that “normal” isn’t enough.

I personally have had the privilege of telling Richard’s story, through video, newspaper, magazine and web. I’ll never forget walking into the Umatilla Drug Store for the first time, assigned with interviewing a pharmacist who wrote a book.

What I thought was going to be a typical interview turned into much more. Richard shared his miraculous story and how it changed his life. He was an inspiration just by living, but even more so by how he was living his life. He was always joyful, always grateful and had a way of lifting spirits.

Last year, after his cancer diagnosis, I visited with Doc and his wife at their home. He was going through chemo, and you could tell that was wearing on his body, but it wasn’t wearing on his spirit. He took every opportunity to witness to other chemo patients, spreading the hope and joy he found in the Lord with others. It was his mission, his purpose and reason for pushing forward.

The amazing thing about Richard is that countless others have the same stories of how he’s stepped up to help, spread a kind word or just smile.

To say that I am devastated is and understatement. However, I made a promise before he passed that I would continue telling his story, and that the differences he has made in this world would not be forgotten. Instead, it would be lived out through the lives he has touched.