OBITUARY- TOMMIE SUE RICH

Tommie Sue Rich, aged 95, of McKinney, TX, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on October 4, 2025. She was surrounded by her loving family. Sue was born in Ft. Worth, TX to Dan and Mattie Markum on April 9, 1930. Her parents instilled in her a deep faith and love of people that would prove to be instrumental in shaping her entire life.

In 1950, Sue married the Rev. Homer Howard Rich, beginning a beautiful partnership that lasted sixty-seven years until Homer's passing in 2017. Together they faithfully served as pastors in various Assemblies of God churches for more than six decades, ministering their congregation with compassion and dedication to God's calling. They also went on several very rewarding missionary adventures bringing Jesus Christ's word to others.

Sue led a very committed and busy life as the wife of a pastor. While Homer pastored, Sue was the Day School Director in a role she absolutely loved. She shared her gifts of faith and love as a teacher to the children who attended. Later, she even started and owned a day care of her own, continuing her enjoyment of children and by action molding the young lives she served.

Another talent Sue possessed was in music. She played the organ or the piano in the churches where they served and was involved in the children's choir. Other activities she engaged in were teaching in the children's church and Sunday School, and she also led the Missionettes in age-appropriate activities often winning many girls to Jesus Christ through love and acceptance. One of Sue's favorite events was coordinating "potluck" dinners for families at the church, and she especially enjoyed being instrumental in planning family meals after funerals. Additionally, when Homer officiated weddings, Sue was right there helping him and making sure everything ran smoothly.

Following her belief in the fifth of the Ten Commandments: "Honor thy father and thy mother.", Sue was the caregiver not only for her mother, but also for her grandmother when they were at a point in their lives where they needed help. Sue lovingly remembered and followed that commandment. Michael Rich, one of Sue's sons says there is no doubt that she planted the seed for him to become a caregiver to both his mother and his father as long as they needed him. This was a lasting legacy of Sue's as she demonstrated the selflessness and commitment to care she showed her mother and grandmother.

Having grandchildren to love was one of Sue's greatest joys and she was always shopping for little things to give to them. She was exceptionally proud of each and every one for who they are and the love they shared with her.

Sue had other adventures after diligently serving her church and when she had retired. One of her favorite outings was to thrift stores. She loved the excitement of the hunt, often finding little treasures for her room whether at home or when she was in a rehab or skilled nursing facility. In fact, her family worried that she thrifted so diligently, the shops may have to close without her steady patronage. She could always somehow convince her loved ones to take her for her occasional explorations.

Sue's humor, warmth and generosity were spread to all she met and when she entered a room it was instantly brighter. Tommie Sue Rich led a life governed by her steadfast faith, a kind heart, joy, and uncommon strength. Her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire everyone blessed to have known her.

The Bible verse that often-guided Sue and was her favorite is as follows:

"I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me" Philippians 4:13.

Tommie Sue Rich is survived by three children and their spouses, Samuel and Janee Rich, Michael Rich, and Debbie and Don Swanson, along with a large and cherished family of five grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to acknowledge and thank Sue's devoted caregivers:

Faith Presbyterian Hospice: Queen, Francis, and Jennifer

At Home: Patricia and Sinke