Richardson Really Retired – as Mayor of Bray

Sammy Richardson became mayor of Bray in 1978. His retirement from that role became official on Saturday, July 8, at the Bray Community Center. It’s possible that he is the longest-running mayor of any community in the state of Oklahoma. Everyone who knows Richardson simply knows him as Sammy. Or Sammy with a great laugh and smile.

His family, friends, fellow council members and committee partners made sure they were going to share all their thoughts and stories during the event.

Stories, like those from his daughter, Shelly Ramsey, as she reminisced about sister Sarah helping their dad install “all the street signs” with directions from dad. “And there were lots of directions.” She also talked about the park, softball field and tennis court. The court eventually became the foundation for the current Bray Community Center.

“What we really discovered is Dad likes child labor.” That elicited quite a bit of laughter.

For every story there was laughter. Each individual at the podium pointed out Sammy’s better qualities which have made him a great mayor for the last 45 years. But he didn’t do it alone. His wife, Wilma, has been there every step of the way.

Marlow Mayor Jeff Prater, who grew up in Bray, was first among many to make a presentation.

“It is an honor and I can’t imagine the time and effort Sammy has put into the town of Bray,” He issued a Proclamation from the City of Marlow recognizing July 8, 2023, as Sammy Richardson Day. “His dignity, integrity and passion has made the entire area a better place. Together with the City of Marlow, he’s made the northern portion of Stephens County a better place to live.”

“Dad was always looking for ways to improve our little community,” Ramsey said. Both her sisters, Sherrie Smith, and Sarah Cardoza were at the event. Cardoza flew in from California on Thursday and her arrival was intended as a surprise. Someone though, couldn’t contain the secret.

Presentations were made by Rep. Brad Boles, another on behalf of Secretary of Agriculture Blaine Arthur, with a commendation from Gov. Kevin Stitt, and from incoming Mayor Scott Boland, Kim Whaley with Pathways to a Healthier You and Perry Brinegar, Director of Public Safety with ASCOG. The Town Council also had a surprise of its own.

The small community park will soon bear Sammy’s name. It was made official during the Thursday, July 6 meeting, but Sammy didn’t know. During that council meeting, Sammy was asked to leave for just a few moments. While he was out of earshot, the council renamed the park to the Sammy Richardson Community Park. The unveiling of a temporary sign took place during his retirement party.

Rep. Brad Boles presented Richardson with a proclamation on behalf of Boles, Garvin and OK Gov. Kevin Stitt – distinguished career – recognized for his hard work, sacrifice and accomplishments.

“I was mayor of Marlow for four years and they got smart and elected Jeff Prater, but I can’t imagine 45 years. That takes a lot of heart and passion to serve your community and I think that knows Sammy knows that is who he is.”

Whaley hailed Sammy as an excellent mentor and leader. Even though he is stepping down from his mayoral role, he will continue to serve on the Pathways group for another year as vice chair. He’s been with the organization for 12 years.

“He’s always helped eliminate city barriers. There’s no B.S. with Sammy,” Whaley said.

Brinegar talked about Sammy’s role with ASCOG. “This gentleman has helped change the lives of people in eight counties. He has had to make some difficult decisions (funding). I’m going to miss his smile and laugh. Certain people truly have a servant’s heart,” he said.

Boland said he had no idea Sammy was recruiting him for public service, until it happened. “My life has changed drastically. But it’s all good.”

“I did not know that because of him, a grant was funded to place people in brand-new homes. That’s amazing. When you say the Town of Bray – Sammy Richardson’s name is right there, synonymous, he is Bray.”

“He is so dedicated, and his leadership from 1978 on is phenomenal. You just can’t replace Sammy. This day really needs to be celebrated.” He presented Sammy with a plaque on behalf of the Town of Bray for his service to the community. Boland said the work of Sammy went beyond the Bray town limits and made a positive difference throughout southern Oklahoma.

Finally, after all the lauding, all the laughing, Sammy took his turn at the podium.

“Seems the City of Marlow is we’re the reason we are the Town of Bray.” He shared the tale of Marlow needing to haul trash to a new location after its dump was closed. Marlow had purchased land in the unofficial Bray community. “Marlow began trucking their trash through Bray to the new dumpsite, four to five times a day. That was the very thing that upset the town of Bray. We, the community, met at the Indian church over here and decided to incorporate. That didn’t last long it was too expensive for Marlow to transport their trash.”

That sour situation spurred Bray residents to incorporate in 1977. But instead of it building barriers, thanks to Sammy, it made the region stronger – for the betterment of community – Bray, Marlow and many more.

Happy Retirement Sammy!