After a long and storied career in the manufactured housing industry spanning 45 years, 29 of them with what is now American Homestar Corp., MHProNews has learned Ronnie Richards is retiring, as he transitions into a family-owned business, Butler’s Courtyard, a popular event venue in Houston. Ronnie joined Homestar (then called Mobile America) in 1980 when the company had several retail stores and an insurance company, helping to realize performance records until the energy crunch in the late 1980s when refurbishing and re-selling repossessions became the order of the day, a process in which Ronnie was instrumental. He briefly joined Clayton Homes in the early 1990s and then returned to his marketing position with Homestar. He will continue as a consultant to the company, as a volunteer with several community organizations, and will spend time with his seven grandchildren.
He says: “I leave with mixed emotions as I look forward to this new chapter but step back from the industry that fed my family, put three daughters through college (and) allowed me to meet so many close friends.” Buck Teeter, founder and CEO of Homestar says: “Over his many years, Ronnie has made significant contributions to the company’s success. I truly appreciate the hard work, dedication and loyalty he has displayed as a valuable, long term member of our team.” ##
