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87-year-old Houston Astros usher retires from dream job
An 87-year-old Houston Astros game usher is proving that if you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life.
Suzann Richardson first started working as an usher in the Astrodome 31 years ago. She had just retired from a teaching career back in 1995, and was looking for a fun job to do in retirement.
"I was driving by the Astrodome and I needed two years of social security, and I decided, well, that would be a fun job to do," said Richardson. "And I thought, well, I'll apply and try, and I got accepted into the Diamond Club and I've been here ever since!"
In 1995, the Astrodome had just introduced the diamond level section where Richardson was stationed, featuring premium seats behind home plate that went for around $100 each. When the team moved into its new ballpark downtown in 2000, the diamond level became the exclusive Diamond Club, featuring luxury amenities and upscale dining. Home plate VIP tickets now go for around $500-$1,000 per ticket. Richardson says the best part of her job in the Diamond Club has always been greeting and talking to so many different fans.
"There are so many memories, everything from celebrating President Bush's 80th birthday to seeing him in the Diamond Club," said Richardson. "And meeting and having fans come down and say hi to me. The fans, they have been awesome. They have really made me feel comfortable, and I hopefully have made them feel welcome."
Richardson also wears two World Series championship rings, awarded to team employees following the Astros' titles in 2017 and 2022.
"My favorite player? Probably Biggio is my all time favorite, which is probably typical of most fans," she said. "And current player is probably Altuve."
This week, Richardson is officially retiring from her dream job with Astros Guest Services. She hopes to spend more time traveling, and has visited six continents and 67 countries.
"I've got plans to go to South Africa for a safari," Richardson said, smiling.
While she never intended to stay so long, she says her job with the Astros changed her life.
"I can't believe a dream came true," Richardson laughed. "I was going to do this two years, and 31 years later, I'm retired!"
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