News Summary
Richard Ambrus, who dedicated four decades to Glenwood Cemetery as its executive director, passed away recently at the age of 81. His commitment to the cemetery and local government activities significantly impacted the Houston community. Throughout his career, Ambrus was involved in various public service roles, ensuring Glenwood Cemetery’s services and facilities evolved to meet the needs of the community. He is remembered as a loving family man and a committed leader, leaving a lasting legacy in the city of Houston.
Houston, Texas – Richard “Dick” Allan Ambrus, the long-serving executive director of Glenwood Cemetery, passed away on January 20, 2025, at the age of 81. His contributions to the cemetery and local government have left a lasting impact on the community he served for decades.
Born on June 1, 1943, in San Antonio, Texas, Ambrus dedicated his life to public service and management. He completed his education at St. Gerard’s Catholic School in San Antonio, where he attended from grades 1 to 12. Following high school, he served in the Marine Corps from 1961 to 1965, an experience that shaped his character and leadership skills.
After his military service, Ambrus pursued higher education, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Our Lady of the Lake University in 1974. His diverse career included roles in the state comptroller’s office, Alexander Grant (now known as Grant Thornton), and North Houston Pole Line, but it was his tenure at Glenwood Cemetery that defined his professional legacy.
Ambrus served as the executive director of Glenwood Cemetery for an impressive forty years, a role he held until his retirement in December 2023. Under his leadership, Glenwood Cemetery expanded its services and facilities, including plans for a new welcoming center that will offer a gathering space, library, and education center, funded by the Glenwood Cemetery Foundation. He emphasized that Glenwood Cemetery has burial space for at least the next 60 years, ensuring its continued significance to the community.
In addition to his work at Glenwood Cemetery, Ambrus was active in local government in Jersey Village, holding positions on the Planning and Zoning Committee, City Council, and ultimately serving as Mayor. His commitment to public service extended further when he took on the role of President of the Texas Cemetery Association from 2018 to 2019, contributing to the enhancement of cemetery standards across the state. He was known for his dedicated service and leadership within this community.
Ambrus is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years, Bonnie Kay, and their three sons: David Michael, Scott Allan, and Jeffrey Ryan. He also leaves behind three grandchildren: Ryan David, Natalie Ann, and Isabella Marie, who remember him as a loving family man.
A visitation service was held at Geo. H. Lewis & Sons on January 27, 2025. A Mass of Christian Burial took place at St. Anne Catholic Church in Houston on January 28, 2025, followed by the Rite of Committal at Glenwood Cemetery. Family members and members of the Board of Glenwood Cemetery Inc. served as pallbearers during the services.
Glenwood Cemetery, established in 1871 and covering 88 acres, serves as the final resting place for many notable Houstonians, including famous figures like Howard Hughes and Gene Tierney. It is not only a burial site but also utilized as a public park for walking, picnics, and photography, enhancing its role in the community.
The costs for funeral services at Glenwood Cemetery range from $8,500 to over $50,000, reflecting the varying options available for families during their times of loss.
Richard Ambrus often described his life as full and unique, a testament to his commitment and contributions to the city of Houston and beyond. His legacy will continue through the developments made at Glenwood Cemetery and the numerous lives he touched through his dedicated service.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Richard Ambrus Obituary
- Houston Chronicle: Houston Landmarks
- Houstonia Magazine: Famous Houstonians Buried in Glenwood Cemetery
- Only in Your State: Haunted and Historic Places in Texas
- Houston on the Cheap: Famous People Buried in Houston
- Wikipedia: Glenwood Cemetery
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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