TSTA Announces Passing of Executive Director Richard Kouri

The Texas State Teachers Association (TSTA) on Monday announced the passing of Richard Kouri, the association’s executive director.

Kouri, 69, died on June 28 in Austin, following a lengthy illness.

“Richard was one of a kind and worked tirelessly his entire career for our public school students and educators, TSTA President Ovidia Molina said in a statement, adding:

“He was a high school English teacher, local union president, preceded me as our state union president, director of public affairs, and finally executive director of TSTA. He had an unwavering commitment to making our public schools and communities better, and believed support for public education was the cornerstone of our democracy. Richard will be greatly missed, even as his legacy continues to inspire the many whose lives he impacted and all who loved him.”

A visitation will be held Friday, July 5 from 4 to 8 PM at Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 N. Lamar Blvd in Austin. A memorial service will be held at a later date.