Richard Lee Pavlas

Richard Lee Pavlas, was born on July 31, 1944, in Shiner, Texas. He passed away peacefully on September 8, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, friendships, service, hard work, and love for his family. Richard grew up in the Praha/Schulenburg area and learned the value of hard work from an early age. His working life began at the family grocery and butcher shop with his brother in Schulenburg, where he developed the strong work ethic and practical nature that would remain with him throughout his life. He later worked repairing oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico, an experience that reflected his willingness to take on challenging work and provide for his family. It was early on, where Richard met the love of his life, Barbara. Their meeting began a lifelong marriage filled with family, friendship, and shared memories. Richard began his career with Southwestern Bell and later AT&T, starting as a telephone repairman. Through his dedication, knowledge, and ability to work with people, he worked his way into Sales and Customer Service, where he built a long and successful career before retiring after 41 years. Richard was a man who enjoyed the outdoors and the simple pleasures of life. He loved hunting, fishing, rodeo, and good barbeque. He was a founding member of the Beefmasters BBQ cooking team. Whether outdoors, working with his hands, or spending time with friends and family, Richard was most at home when he was doing what he loved. Service and community were also important parts of Richard's life. He was a Lifetime Member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 2917, having joined the organization early in his life. He was also a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Auxiliary, Schulenburg Chapter 870, and took pride in supporting veterans and his community. He also served over 40 years with the St. Rose of Lima Men's Club, helping out with all of the church events, including their semi-annual fish fry. The members thoroughly enjoyed when Richard made his homemade chicken noodle soup for their chapter events. Richard had a true gift for helping others. He was the person people could turn to when they needed a helping hand or advice. He could repair just about anything – everything from a deer stand to a lawnmower to a kitchen sink to a washing machine. He was especially known for making his pinto beans, beef stew and gumbo for family and friends. These acts of kindness, along with his willingness to help whenever he was needed, are memories that will live on in those who knew him. Richard is survived by his wife, Barbara Pavlas; his son, Brian Pavlas and son-in-law Aldo Rosello; his daughter, Rene Vielmas and son-in-law Jerry Vielmas; and his grandchildren, Brooke Vielmas and Briley Vielmas. Richard will be remembered for his strong work ethic, independent spirit, generous heart, love of the outdoors, devotion to his family, and willingness to always help out. From his early days to his retirement, Richard lived a life built on love, hard work and perseverance. Most of all, Richard will be remembered as a husband, father, grandfather, friend, and neighbor who touched the lives of many people along the way. His family and friends will carry his memory with them—in the stories they share, the places they enjoyed together, the lessons he taught, and the many small acts of kindness that defined the man he was. Richard will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished. May he rest in peace. A visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11, 2026 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, 3600 Brinkman Street in Houston, Texas. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 13202 FM 531, Halletsville, Texas 77964. Richard will be laid to rest at St. John the Baptist Catholic cemetery immediately following the Mass.

Richard Lee Pavlas

July 31, 1944 - September 8, 2026