John was a unique individual, and I feel very fortunate to have known him. I'll add some longer memories in the story section. Joanne and family ....I regret not being there this afternoon, but I've lost power, have not been plowed, and don't think that my car - or I - could make it. My heart is with all of you......Karen Anderson
My condolences, dear Joanne. We'll all miss him. Wish I could have made it to the service to be with you -- weathergods willed otherwise, I guess. All best to you and the boys.
A legendary teacher and scholar of Tudor and Stuart England, John Rilling was a favorite professor to so many at U of R. His sense of humor, his attention to detail, and his love for students made him the quintessential University of Richmond professor. Few personalities on campus embodied so many of the ideals and qualities that we came to revere in our college experience. Dr. Rilling was awarded the university's "Distinguished Educator Award" five times, and with the exception of his history colleague John Treadway, more than another professor in the history of the university.
I remember that unlike so many of his peers, Dr. Rilling's office was always meticulously organized and free of clutter. When I would visit for advisement, the only objects on his desk were my file and a pencil. No books, no phone, no papers. His sense of professorial style was impeccable. A staunch advocate for the humanities (everything else was simply "training"), he understood learning as the irreducible ingredient in a meaningful life. Demanding, forthright, inquisitive, and kind, John Rilling was an ideal advisor and teacher. I have always been honored to have been his friend and student. Rest in peace, professor.
Dr. Rilling was my favorite professor from the University of Richmond. I had him for 8:00 a.m. history my first year at UR -- I got "stuck" with that 8 a.m. class because no one else wanted to get up that early. What a windfall for me! He was such an engaging, interesting professor. He became my advisor and encouraged me to pursue law school. I have him to thank for my career.
Dr. Rilling was one of my favorite professors of all time. I had him while I was pursuing a M.A. in British History. He encouraged me to go to the British Studies at Oxford Program, and I will never forget that experience. He was tough, no question, but he knew when you needed encouragement. He was my thesis advisor,he made sure I never faltered. God Bless Dr.Rilling and all who loved him.
Professor Rilling was the finest most exemplary historian I ever studied with. In 1964, he asked me to deliver three lectures on African history in his British Empire class.
He inspired me to pursue graduate studies culminating in a Ph.D. from UCLA. He was gracious, kind and beautiful.
