Richard Charles Kouri Jr.

He attended first grade at Cathedral School of Saint Mary and continued his public education at Harris Elementary, Pearce Junior High, and Reagan High School. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

Richard met his future wife Elizabeth Karen Gilliland in their sophomore English class at Reagan. Ultimately they both became English teachers. Richard taught English for several years at Anderson High School and later at Johnston High. During this time he became passionate about advocating for public education. His first elected position was editor of the Austin Association of Teachers newsletter. Through the next several decades, Richard became Vice-President and then President of AAT, Vice-President and President of the Texas State Teachers Association, a TSTA lobbyist, and Executive Director of TSTA, a job he loved and held until his death. TSTA employees along with countless members were his second family.

Richard was known for his wit, intellect, generosity, and compassion. He was a passionate activist and advocate for public education. He was always up for a challenge, a fight, or a debate and created much "good trouble."

Richard was preceded in death by his father Richard Charles Kouri, Sr. and numerous aunts and uncles. He is survived by his mother Genevieve, his wife of 46 years Karen, his brother Michael and his wife Sheria, and his uncle Raymond Joseph. Visitation will be held from 4 PM to 8 PM on Thursday, July 5, at Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 N. Lamar Blvd. A private funeral is planned and a memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at a later time.