Thomas Mark "Pappy" Rich

Son of Natalie Sue Rich and E.B. Rich was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. He graduated from W. B. Ray High School in 1965. Thomas studied Business and Finance at Texas A&M University, and then graduated from Texas Christian University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. Thomas grew up in Corpus Christi, then resided in Fort Worth until the mid-1980’s, finally settling in San Antonio. While he always had an interest in airplanes and flying, Thomas also enjoyed playing sports throughout his life, including baseball, handball, golf, water skiing, and running. His competitive spirit was always on display, even having completed a half marathon as a cancer survivor. Pappy also enjoyed a fierce competition of Wii with his grandchildren. He really enjoyed being a part of the annual golf and fellowship gatherings with the W.B. Ray High School Amigos.

Thomas’ love for flying came at an early age, and in the early 1980s, he got his private pilot’s license. He always loved flying and enjoyed giving ‘flying lessons’ to friends and family, especially his grandchildren. He was an active member of Chapter 35 of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA 35). He was also the president of the property owners association for the airpark where he lived.

Pappy was a stranger to no one. His kind and loving nature, along with a fearless ability to express love to others, was evident in the many lifelong friendships he developed. He had the gift of talking to anyone he had just met. Within minutes, they would be conversing as if they had known each other for a lifetime, with Pappy often imparting words of wisdom and healing. With his natural aptitude for connecting with others, Pappy had a long and successful career in auto sales, direct marketing, and as a professional speaker on tax strategies.

His love for his wife Paula Sue, and the family was always displayed through his words and actions. Their blended family grew within their love for one another, over their 23 years of marriage. At the forefront of Pappy’s belief, was his relationship with God. This connection rooted him within his values, and the wisdom he shared with his family, and everyone he met.

Thomas was preceded in death by his mother, Natalie Sue Rich; sister, Margaret Ann Rich Summy; and niece, Myra Lynn Matthews Buis. Pappy is survived by wife, Paula Sue Rich; children, Thomas Mark Rich II, Elise Rich Calhoun (Aaron), Christopher William Rich (Debbie), Julie Sisente (Paul Petersen), and William Robert Miller (Charlee); grandchildren, Colby James Miller, Kaylee Marie Miller, Savannah Nicole Sisente, Tesla Jude Calhoun, Lennon Sabine Calhoun, Wade Robert Miller, Ella Madison Petersen, and Mina Yvette Jones; nephew, Mark R. Matthews (Amy); as well as beloved dog, Buttercup.

Pappy loved yellow because it reminded him of God. The family would be grateful if you choose to honor him by wearing yellow to the service.

Please click the link to view the service for Thomas Mark “Pappy” Rich.

MEMORIAL SERVICESATURDAY, MAY 4, 20242:00 P.M.PORTER LORING MORTUARY WEST(LOCATED NEAR SEAWORLD)

Rod Clark and Henry Mooney will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.