Richard Lee Fontenot, the only Texas born child of the late Houston Sr. and Gussie Fontenot, was born on Wednesday, August 7, 1946. He was adored and coddled by his older sister and brother and parents.

From an early age, Richard was reared in the Antioch Baptist Church, where he was encouraged to become an active, involved youth. He was brought to church by his parents even though he confessed to "stealing away" with his friends when he could do so without his mom seeing him! He didn't know it then but his walk with Christ was the cornerstone of his faith. He often shared this sentiment.

After graduating high school in 1964 at Carver High School, he attended Prairie View A&M University and was a member of the ROTC. He was drafted into the army and served in the Vietnam War, realizing that he was covered by the blood of Jesus when bullets wicked around him. Talk about calling on the name of Jesus! He was discharged honorably, alive, and not physically injured.

When returning home, he was blessed to start a career at DuPont where he eventually served as a supervisor, retiring after 33 years. Richard worked also with his nephews, James and George Frazier. They were proficient in wiring, roofing, and building.

Richard loved being a father to his only child and "mini-me", Brian Lee Fontenot. Brian was his greatest gift who made him very proud. He served as a deacon, where he was respected and admired for his leadership, Christian walk, and biblical knowledge. He was blessed with a great memory. He was a great motivator, encouraging men giving sound advice with his calmness, patience, and maturity. He epitomized and displayed a servant's spirit. In 2003, he joined the True Vine MBC under the leadership of Pastor Tyrone Sylvester.

On May 8, 2008, he was joined in holy matrimony, with Kathrin Bradford Levy. He became a step-father to Christoper Levy, who valued his mentorship and UNCONDITIONAL love. He also shared his pride and joy Brian, with Kathrin and Christopher. Rich was a great husband and father and was an even greater grandfather to Asia Samone Levy!

To know Richard Lee was to love him! He fostered relationships with the men and women he met working for many years as a limo driver at Frazier Funeral Home and other funeral homes in the area. He constantly had people laughing through stories and jokes and lightened up every room he was in.

Richard also loved and was loved by the pastor and deacons at True Vine MBC! Being well rounded, he easily bonded with his golfing buddies, Melvin Leroy, Red, Mike, and others. In June 2024, he began his final journey. A man of faith, he trusted God's plan for his life. He never gave up when cancer became his consistent companion. He often shared that he was at peace and was accepting of his fate. He was joined and supported by his loving wife, Kathrin, niece, Carolyn, and son, Brian. They were both present joining him for doctors visits, hospitalization, and ER visits. He loved and valued the time they all spent together.

On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, he received his wings! His pain, sickness, and all things caused by his cancer were left behind at Micheal E. DeBakey Medical Center. He received a veterans farewell that was dignified and highly respectful!

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathrin Fontenot, son, Brian Lee Fontenot, step son, Christopher Levy, and granddaughter, Asia Levy, along with a host of very special nieces and nephews, and brothers and sisters in love. He will also be greatly missed by his nephew, George Frazier, whom he was as close as a brother and niece, Dr. Carolyn Pinchback, who shared his final journey with her support and love.

Richard is now united with his parents, Houston Sr. and Gussie Fontenot, sisters, Beatrice Frazier, Ethel Frazier, Almease Pinchback, Cheryl Fontenot, Orchard Berryman, and brother, Houston Fontenot Jr.

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