RICHARD PABLO MIRANDA

HAR is deeply saddened to announce the passing of 2021 HAR Chairman Richard Pablo Miranda, 76, of San Juan, Puerto Rico, on August 7, 2023.

Richard was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico in January 1947 to Daisy Lopez Borsch of New York and Richard Miranda Morales of Manatí, Puerto Rico. He was the middle child to four sisters: Emma, Marga, Diana, and Anita. Richard grew up and attended school in the San Juan area except for one year of study in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, which he’d just as soon forget (he broke his leg and he hated the cold). He returned to Puerto Rico and graduated from Academia del Perpetuo Socorro High School in 1964.

Richard spent a year at the University of Puerto Rico studying business administration and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1965. Stops included Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas for basic training and then Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois for tech school. He eventually earned his instructor wings and for three years taught Aircraft Support Equipment Maintenance in the 3349th Instructor Training School at Chanute, where he discovered his trademark gift for teaching and public speaking. Richard reached the rank of E-4 Sergeant and was honorably discharged in January 1969.

After returning to Puerto Rico in 1970, Richard pursued a job to pay off his bills, initially seeking to become a history professor, but ultimately joining the sales division of the Puerto Rico Telephone Company. That same year, a friend tipped him off about a house party in Ponce hosted by “a pretty girl” from Pan Am named Doris Rodriguez. He fell for this adventurous and spirited woman and quickly asked for her hand in marriage. They wed in 1971. For several years, they traveled the globe as part of Doris’ Pan Am benefits.

In January 1974, a son entered the world: Ricardo Alejandro. A second son, Rubén Eduardo, followed in October 1975. With the family complete, Richard and Doris debated their future and after much discussion, they made the extremely difficult decision to leave their extended family behind and look for work elsewhere in the “upper 48” — first in Little Rock, Arkansas, then eventually settling in Houston, Texas in 1978. The family loved their new adopted hometown and all the new things to see and do, but their favorite activity was to catch an Astros game in the Astrodome. Richard and Doris joined Prince of Peace Catholic Community in 1988 and were active in Marriage Encounter and the Youth Ministry from the outset. In 2003, Richard welcomed his first grandchild: Robert Edward. Two more followed: Ava Victoria in 2010 and Christian Alejandro in 2013.

Richard worked in the telecom industry for more than 20 years. In 2002, his employer abruptly dissolved its telecom division, leaving Richard without a job. Prospects were dim, and as he plotted his next career move, a close friend told him about a test to become a real estate agent. That conversation planted a bug in his ear, and with no hesitation he spent the next few months studying for his real estate broker license. He got it, and soon joined Keller Williams Realty where, over time, he honed his lead generation and lead conversion techniques to become a top producer. When the opportunity arose for Richard to begin teaching real estate courses, he leapt at it — teaching was his passion and in his DNA and he cherished the opportunity to meet new students and get to know their stories. His leadership journey took him to the Houston Association of Realtors, where he was elected to the board as a Director and eventually served on its Executive Committee, becoming Chairman in 2021. Richard knew innately the importance of servant leadership and was eternally grateful to the HAR membership for every opportunity he was afforded.

Sadly, in 2017 Richard was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He continued to live his life, travel, network, teach and build relationships until the very end. We will miss you “Papa Richard.”

Richard is survived by his son Ricardo Miranda and daughter-in-law, Lisa Miranda, of Allen, TX; son Ruben Miranda of Austin, TX; and grandchildren Robert Miranda of Austin, TX, Ava Miranda of Allen, TX, and Christian Miranda of Allen, TX; sisters Emma Miranda-Perez of Tampa, FL, Margarita Miranda of San Juan, PR, Diana Miranda-Bennett of San Juan, PR, and Anita Miranda-Clench of Houston, TX. He is preceded in death by his wife of 50 years Doris, his mother Daisy, and his father Richard.

Funeral services were held on August 25 at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Houston.

GEORGE C. STEPHENS

With heavy hearts, HAR announces the passing of 1998 HAR Chairman George C. Stephens, a remarkable individual whose legacy has left an indelible mark on the real estate community. George’s journey, one defined by unwavering dedication and visionary leadership, came to a close with his recent passing. His absence is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

George’s impact on the real estate landscape was profound, evident in the very fabric of HAR. As 1998 chairman, he laid the foundation upon which HAR.com, the digital cornerstone of real estate information, was born. His foresight and innovative spirit revolutionized how the industry operates in the digital age, shaping the future of real estate interactions.

Beyond the boundaries of HAR, George’s influence reached across the state of Texas. In 2003, he assumed the role of Chairman for the Texas Association of REALTORS® , where his passion and commitment continued to inspire positive change. His leadership reverberated throughout the industry, a testament to his dedication and tireless efforts.

George’s exceptional contributions did not go unnoticed. He was hailed as REALTOR® of the Year by both HAR and the Texas Association of REALTORS® —an accolade reflecting his exemplary commitment to the profession. In recognition of his invaluable contributions to HAR, the Technology Training Room stands as a testament to his legacy, a place where future generations will continue to learn and grow.

HAR.com, the platform that bears the imprint of George’s vision, stands as a testament to his enduring influence. Every consumer and member who navigates its digital realms owes a debt of gratitude to George for his pioneering spirit and dedication.

As we bid farewell to George C. Stephens, we do so with a profound sense of loss. His absence leaves a void that cannot be easily filled, and his memory will forever serve as a reminder of the heights that can be reached through passion, commitment, and innovation.

Details regarding a Celebration of Life in honor of George will be shared with the community once they are made available. In these moments of remembrance, may we find solace in the profound impact George had on our lives and industry. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all.

Member obituaries and visitation/funeral arrangements for posting on HAR’s Members Only Portal and in the Houston REALTOR® may be sent to David Mendel at david.mendel@har.com.