What started as a retirement side job turned into 31 years at the ballpark for 87-year-old Houston Astros usher Suzann Richardson.
Richardson first started working as an usher in the Astrodome in 1995, after retiring from a teaching career and looking for something fun to do.
“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!”
At the time, the Astrodome had just introduced its diamond level section, where Richardson was stationed. The premium seats behind home plate sold for around $100 each.
When the Astros moved into their new downtown ballpark in 2000, the diamond level became the Diamond Club, with luxury amenities and upscale dining. Home plate VIP tickets now sell for around $500 to $1,000 each.
Richardson said the best part of the job has always been greeting and talking with 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 after 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 job with Astros Guest Services. She said she hopes to spend more time traveling after visiting six continents and 67 countries.
“I’ve got plans to go to South Africa for a safari,” Richardson said.
While she said she never meant to stay that long, Richardson said the job 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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