Richmond activist Farid Alan Schintzius died Thursday, Dec. 5 at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy of local advocacy and community engagement. Schintzius’ family confirmed his death on a social media post.

“Alan dedicated his life to leaving this world better than he found it by relentlessly pursuing love, beauty, and justice,” the post read. “If you would like to honor his memory please carry a small spark of his embers into the world and let it grow into a mighty flame!”

A native of Buffalo, N.Y., Schintzius attended Bishop Fallon High School and graduated from Daemen University in 1973. He later worked as a carpenter before moving to Richmond, where he became a cornerstone of the city’s counter-cultural and activist circles.

Schintzius helped found The Camel, a popular live music venue, and WRIR, Richmond’s independent radio station. He also ran for mayor in 2016.

Schintzius was a passionate activist and an organizer affiliated with Occupy Richmond, a grassroots movement advocating for social and economic justice. He was widely recognized for championing initiatives focused on community engagement and addressing systemic inequality.

In 2024, Schintzius joined former legislator Viola Baskerville in forming the Save Community Hospital group in response to Virginia Union University’s plans for the former Richmond Community Hospital.

“In memory and honor of Farid Alan Schintzius, let us all carry a spark of activism into the world to make it a better place,” Baskerville wrote on the group’s social media.

Schintzius is survived by seven children and numerous friends and loved ones. A public memorial will be held near his birthday in April, with details to follow.