Blog
In Memoriam: Rus Willis (1953-2025)
September 30, 2025
The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) is saddened to share the passing of “Rus” Richard King Willis on September 19, 2025, at the age of 72.
Born July 5, 1953, in Washington, D.C., Rus led a life full of adventure, reinvention, and dedication to his passions. After beginning his career in sheet metal work, a serious injury set him on a new path. In 1978, he moved to Montana to pursue his dream of becoming an outfitter and guide, ultimately riding more than 20,000 miles by horse and mule and leading hundreds of big game hunts and countless fishing trips across the country.
In 1994, Rus turned his focus to herbal medicine and founded longtime AHPA member company Bighorn Botanicals, where he championed the benefits of Pacific yew (Taxus brevifolia). He often expressed gratitude to AHPA for helping Bighorn Botanicals navigate the complex regulatory landscape for herbal supplements, crediting the association's guidance as vital to the company's survival.
His connection to AHPA was also deeply personal — Rus was a close friend of late, longtime AHPA President Michael McGuffin, with whom he shared not only a passion for herbs and botanicals but also a deep sense of purpose in serving the herbal community. Over nearly three decades, he grew Bighorn Botanicals into a respected business, later passing it to his youngest daughter upon his retirement. Through this work, Rus shared his belief in the healing power of plants and helped improve the lives of people and animals alike.
“Rus personified the community spirit of AHPA,” said Amber Bennett, AHPA Vice President of Marketing & Engagement. “His generosity, friendship, and dedication to the herbal community left a lasting mark. We look forward to carrying on his work with his daughter Chelsey and honoring his legacy for years to come.”
Rus was a devoted father, grandfather, husband, and friend. He is survived by his wife, Deborah Anne; his four children — Jesse, Katie, Chase, and Chelsey — and ten grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as “Boppa.” His family will announce final plans for a celebration of his life, to be held in July 2026.
AHPA extends heartfelt condolences to Rus's family, friends, and colleagues. His adventurous spirit and contributions to the herbal products community will be long remembered.
