Billy Richard Lawler

Richard graduated from Odessa High School in 1984 and went on to attend Odessa College on a track scholarship. He excelled in track, especially hurdles, and won numerous awards throughout the years. His team went on to win the Junior College National Championship. He was often heard saying, “You may be better than me, but you’ll never work harder than me,” a motto that defined both his athletic career and his character.

Richard later joined the Army in 1986, where he was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado. He earned multiple fitness awards including a perfect score on his Army Fitness Test, an accomplishment he was extremely proud of. It was during his time in the Army that Richard discovered his love for cooking. While serving in the military, he received a Distinguished Graduate Diploma in food service at the United States Army Quartermaster School. His passion for cooking led to a successful career as an executive chef at both the Racquet Club and the Petroleum Club before his retirement.

During his youth, Richard participated in football, track, and a variety of other sports. His active lifestyle continued into adulthood when he became an avid golfer. His love of sports also led him to become a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys. He could easily be described as the Cowboys’ number one fan. His commitment to the team even inspired him to name his daughter after former coach Tom Landry.

Family meant everything to Richard. His greatest joy in life was being a father and “Peepaw” to his many grandchildren. He treasured every moment spent with them and took immense pride in watching them grow.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Lillie and Ronnie Lawler. He is survived by his daughters, Morgan (Nate) Burchett, Maegan Puga (Joe Gonzalez), Landri (Zach) McQuistion, and stepdaughter Amanda (Isaiah) Briswalter; his grandchildren, Weston Burchett, Ella McQuistion, Evelyn Burchett, Connor McQuistion, Leo Gonzalez, Amelia Gonzalez, Jack Burchett, and Logan Gonzalez; his fiancée, Laura Houser, and her mother, Carole Millsap; his sisters, Angie (Rickey) Coleman, Pauline (Chuck) Phillips, and Natalie Tidwell; his brother Ronnie Jr. (Sherri) Lawler; his many beloved nieces and nephews; and his lifelong friend, Tim White.

The family would like to thank everyone who provided meals, visits, prayers, and support during these difficult times. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Tunnel to Towers, and the Wounded Warrior Project.