Richard Lee Stahl

Richard Lee Stahl, 79, of Gun Barrel City, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on October 22, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Richard touched the lives of many and leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and devotion to family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Richard was born on June 13, 1947, in Brownfield, Texas. After graduating from Brownfield High School, he proudly served four years in the United States Navy, spending most of his time aboard aircraft carriers as a jet engine mechanic. One of the most memorable highlights of his Navy service was the opportunity to take off from an aircraft carrier in an F-4 fighter jet—a story he would always remember. Following his military service, Richard earned a Bachelor of Accounting degree from Texas Tech University. Richard married his high school sweetheart, Sue Swaringen, on January 26, 1968, in Brownfield. Together, they began their life in Dimmitt, Texas, where Richard started his career as a tax accountant and they raised their three children. As empty nesters, Richard and Sue embraced new adventures, moving to Blair, Nebraska; Olive Branch, Mississippi; and Elk City, Oklahoma, before eventually retiring to the lake in Gun Barrel City, Texas.

Faith and service were important parts of Richard’s life. He and Sue were active members of First Methodist Church of Mabank, where they devoted their time and energy to Love’s Outreach, MAGS, Lord’s Acre, and the church garage sale. Richard found joy in serving others and being part of a caring church community.

In his free time, Richard enjoyed playing golf with friends, gathering with their weekly dinner group, practicing Tai Chi, traveling with Sue, working in the yard, and tackling projects around the house. Above all, his greatest joy was his family, especially his grandchildren. He treasured being there to cheer them on at volleyball and baseball games, gymnastics meets, plays and musicals, and the Buddy Walk. Richard and Sue also created cherished memories by hosting “Grandparents Week at the Lake” for their grandchildren over many summers. These special times together reflected Richard’s generous spirit and the immeasurable love he had for his family. To his nine grandchildren, he was their beloved “Pop,” a role he treasured deeply.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Sue, of Gun Barrel City, Texas; his mother, Chara, of Mabank, Texas; his son, Scott (Shelly), of Lewisville, Texas; his daughters, Stacy (Jordan), of Bluffton, South Carolina, and Sally (Mike), of Pflugerville, Texas; and his nine beloved grandchildren, Paige (Zach), Jake, Trent, Timothy, Samantha, Reece, Leah, Addison, and Jaxson. He is also survived by his great-granddaughter, Hazel; his sister, Rebecca, of Mabank, Texas; his brother, John (Carol), of El Cajon, California; his sister, Lynda, of Mountain View, Arkansas; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Richard’s life was defined by his love for his family, his commitment to his faith, his willingness to serve others, and his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Though he will be profoundly missed, the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the love he shared will remain in the hearts of his family and friends for generations to come.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at First Methodist Church of Mabank.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Richard’s memory to consider a donation to one of the organizations that held a special place in his heart: Sam’s Adventure Camp (2204 Trolley Cove Leander, TX 78641), Love’s Outreach (First Methodist Church of Mabank 501 S. 3rd St Mabank, TX 75147), or First Methodist Church of Mabank (First Methodist Church of Mabank 501 S. 3rd St Mabank, TX 75147).