Daughter of fallen officer delivers heartbreaking eulogy at funeral

A Mesquite police officer who was killed in the line of duty last week was laid to rest Thursday.
Officer Richard Houston was fatally shot outside a Mesquite grocery store on Friday, Dec. 3.
During the noon service at Lakepointe Church in Rockwall, Houston's daughter Shelby, 18, gave an emotional eulogy, recounting the last text message her father sent to her.
MORE: www.wfaa.com/article/news/loc...
Subscribe to WFAA: bit.ly/subscribetowfaa
For news anytime: www.wfaa.com/

[@patriciagurwitz509]

What an amazing eulogy for an 18-year-old young lady to have given her father. It was heartfelt and absolutely beautiful.❤️

[@a.m.thomas9366]

How old was the father ?

[@troublemakerbros4267]

@@a.m.thomas9366 It matter?

[@michelenatoli9622]

Rude

[@darwel007]

She is a solid rebuke to our violent unforgiving culture.

[@billwilson5341]

David Welch: Whose "violent unforgiving culture"?

[@GabbyTheWeirdGamer]

@@billwilson5341 most of the human race is full of hatred. i wish they were more like her. such a beautiful soul

[@billwilson5341]

@@GabbyTheWeirdGamer: That's not been my experience. Perhaps it is where you live. I find most of the human race to be ignorant but not full of hatred. Take care and don't be like "most of the human race".

[@GabbyTheWeirdGamer]

@@billwilson5341 I’m glad you’ve never experienced it and I hope you never do.

[@wertsdfg7579]

@@GabbyTheWeirdGamer Most humans aren't full of hatred. Stop self projecting

[@samanthabraddy4422]

I sobbed. My husband who was sitting on the couch across the room, who was not paying attention at first, began to cry. What a beautiful speech & a beautiful young soul.

[@robinblake2908]

I don't think their is a dry eye watching this....

[@jadams1722]

This speech made me think… wow what an easy way to defund the police.

[@zacharycoppess7247]

@@jadams1722 Is this the single most desperate attempt to witness someone try to be heard for negativity in a drowning ocean of positivity? Just wanted to let you know, it sank like a rock. ❤️

[@nj8215]

What a beautiful speech. I am crying. She looks just like her dad.

[@switch12345678]

She is very beautiful, but maybe her dress is more suitable for a nightclub visit than a funeral. ❤

[@danielclark8869]

I agree

[@debbieblair1992]

I agree

[@17cubblue]

Who cares how her dress looked. Her dad got shot and killed and ur more worried about what she's wearing.

[@randydavis9756]

N&J i agree wept alot myself to others who commented on the young ladies dress really that is so idiotic it aint funny she was speaking about her dad at his funeral have some decency respect and courtesy

[@phnxraptor]

The fact she has the heart to be thankful that the shooter lives, is one of the most impressive things I've ever seen. What a little light to this dark world, she is. Rest Peacefully, Officer Houston.

[@robertcourson8002]

Once she gets older she definitely will not mean that. No normal thinking.person.would be happy the person who killed their dad lived

[@purpleeuphoric8917]

@@robertcourson8002 leave the girl alone who are you to tell someone who lost their father how to feel you are not the one who lost them maybe she doesnt want to go through life hateing people and living in hate for others

[@purpleeuphoric8917]

@@robertcourson8002 she is a christian that is what christians believe inn forgiveness and you are saying no normal person would think that if you dont have anything positive to say then dont go on commenting on someone who lost their family to a tragedy you know nothing about.

[@robertcourson8002]

@@purpleeuphoric8917 Who are you to get in grown peoples business?

[@dmc414141]

Agreed.

[@anntaylor7781]

I cried so hard, she is such a warrior for Christ. She is beautiful inside and out.

[@Wolfysmusic8880]

I feel so sorry for her loss because her dad was a police officer. If he survived, I'd make him arrest a lot of people.

[@itsmeallijean]

Absolutely!

[@ChernobylPone]

@@Wolfysmusic8880 let me gues, plant the drugs, disable dash cam, and silence the witness. Typical Blue Line

[@bobbydwajam522]

You are a worthy daughter of a worthy father and above all your faith in the Lord Jesus touches my heart .

[@shanannwilliston250]

This ! This is why I believe the gospel! Bless your heart Shelby. Praying comfort for you and the family.

[@Jimmy06blue]

Well I don’t believe in the gospel and I don’t think anybody should believe in it if they don’t want to

[@user-xq9ox2xd3i]

@@Jimmy06blue no one said you had to get over yourself

[@Jimmy06blue]

@@deadboltzz5199oh please! You wouldn’t even have the guts to try 🙄😂😂

[@tonyagingerich9769]

It’s so sad that someone after hearing this young lady speak of love and forgiveness and all they have too say is something so unkind. I will only say I pray they open their hearts to the Lord

[@Jimmy06blue]

@@tonyagingerich9769 yeah right whatever people have their own beliefs so they don’t need the lord!

[@jpbarrett143]

Your testimony about your father was a reflection of his love for the Lord. To raise a daughter with the heart and love for the Lord that you spoke of, speaks without saying. I pray the peace of the Lord be with you and your family.

[@kirstenohm8759]

Ich kann leider Englisch nicht so gut. Aber ich war 20 Jahre als als mein Vater starb. Er fehlt mir noch heute. Obwohl es 33 Jahre her ist und viel Blödsinn durch den Krebs gemacht hat

[@horsegirl07]

I know this young lady’s father is looking down on her and beaming with pride! What a heartbreaking but, beautiful speech. She is so brave. I’m so sorry for their loss.

[@donnagrosch4519]

She a strong child. Her dad must be so proud right now.

[@jadams1722]

He’s dead right now… he gonna be dead for a long time!

[@silverman001]

Todays society has difficulty understanding the difference between empathy and sympathy.... she is a pure angel and has the heart of gold ! Society could learn alot from her speach

[@marissapugliese8752]

This girl has such a pure heart. What a beautiful speech. May the lord give you and your family peace forever in your heart.

[@amybrodeur4427]

My mother died 3 weeks ago, and I’ve yet to be able to cry. This beautiful young lady has helped me let out this huge breath of pain I’ve been holding in. You described your father as only a daughter should. He would be so proud of you. May God bless you always.

[@ericaquick7157]

So sorry for your loss

[@a694snoopy]

Young lady as a father myself you have to know a few things. Your parents did a great job raising you and hearing you keeping Jesus first would make any father proud. You may not feel it right now but you are incredibly strong. Your father would be so proud of you and keep your faith. BTW when I said your father would be proud of you your dad will be just as proud. Having faith in our father will help you for the rest of your life.

[@donaldewert2332]

Your words are very thoughtful!

[@Laura-xs5rp]

Amen and so true❤️‍🔥❣️

[@MrHandyman1954]

Man, I'm still in tears. Viet-nam veteran and ex-Texas police officer here. I too have a daughter who is going to play taps on her trumpet for me when the time comes. God Bless Everyone.

[@robertturner204]

You may be 18 .....but you are wise beyond your years...you are truly a servant of GOD...I do hope and pray you have the blessing of one day minister

[@beverlyisidore8672]

What a heart breaking eulogy by an 18 year old for her Dad. He is resting in the Lord looking over you be not be afraid.

[@sandradawson4408]

BEAUTIFUL!! Such a light of Christ shining forth. I can see her daddy looking down and saying, "That's my girl"! My heart goes out to this family and prayers go up for them. I am so moved by her ❤🙏

[@aarronwilson5647]

Incredible young lady and a brilliant father. Rest in peace officer Houston 🙏

[@raedarden9830]

Incredible young woman. Her Daddy is, indeed, so proud of her.

[@rodneyhill2393]

Young lady. You just made your dad the proudest dad in heaven.

[@donnagray3483]

What a amazing young woman. So sorry for this family’s loss. I send prayers and love.

[@MaryJackson99]

A brave & beautiful eulogy. Your father was honored and his legacy lives on in you.

[@JefferyClifford-js8dj]

Hello Mary.hope you’re having a great day?

[@ChernobylPone]

Who died again? I don’t remember.

[@katrynwells2711]

You’re so strong Shelby. Praying for you and your family. ❤️

[@jazmineeeex]

I don’t know her personally but I’m sooo proud of this girl😭😭 keeping you and your family in my prayers😭😭.I lost my dad to covid dec 2020 so I understand the pain you and your family are feeling stay strong😭❤️

[@gatorcrazy2991]

A testament to this officers life is the loving words from his daughter and the person she is. Rest In Peace brother. My heart is broken for you and your family.

[@kass_G59]

You’re so brave. Your dad would be so proud of you sweetheart. Rest In Peace. ❤️

[@apw474]

When my grandmother passed I thought the same thing, that 18 years wasn’t enough time, I can’t imagine it being a father. But in reality we are so lucky to have been graced with their presence for the time we had.

[@Olive-ec4ki]

What a testimony, your dad is surely with Jesus looking at you feeling proud he raised you the right way. Sending you so much love and prayers. Just a little longer and we will all be in heaven reunited with our loved ones. Love you be strong and rely on your faith.

[@fotini2475]

As a mother of 3 daughters, my heart breaks for you. You made your Daddy proud with this speech, may Gods arms surround you.

[@jadams1722]

He’s not proud… he’s dead!

[@stevegagnon2687]

GODSPEED! TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. YOU ARE A ANGEL AND ONE OF GOD'S CHILDREN. IN A VERY BLESSED WAY.

[@michaelconnors1301]

Wow. What an amazing eulogy esp from one so young. What faith, and what a great testament to her father. He obviously lived his life well and fully. We should all do so well.

[@jimlynch720]

Such a stunning eulogy given with such bravery and compassion. I’m 100% positive her dad was watching a very proud dad.

[@pamfoy]

Wow, your Daddy did his job well raising you. Thank you for honoring your earthly and Heavenly Father so well with this beautiful speech.

[@dmc414141]

My dad died almost 3 years ago and l cried while listening to this remarkable young lady speak so highly and eloquently about her dad. It opened up some wounds for me and I guess I just had to get it out through her eulogy. I wish I would have stood up in the church and speak about my dad during his funeral as well as she did. She is lucky just like me because she had a great dad who was also a true friend, awesome protector and provider. Grief is the price we pay for loving someone so much. If you ever read this sweetheart, please know that your dad is always with you. Look for signs. He will send them. Trust me on this. I'm sorry you didn't get more than 18 years. He's so proud of you and is now your newest guardian angel. Praying for you.

[@theroadtohancockcounty3220]

I'm absolutely speechless from this young lady's speech.

[@DeeDee40ful]

I lost my father two years ago and stood in front of the church and gave his eulogy. My father died from lung disease and was in his 70's. I can't imagine losing a father in the line of duty and at her age of 18. It's heartbreaking nonetheless and the grief can be overwhelming. This officer must have been an amazing person because his daughter is an amazing person. Absolutely beautiful and touching testimony. So very sorry for this family's loss. Sending prayers from our family.

[@Katiejmac]

A true disciple of Christ

[@ravenbonanza1522]

Her parents raised her incredibly well, the right way

[@tbarnes1444]

More like a disciple of satan.....

[@williameisaman2012]

Wow such a moving eulogy she loved her father so so much RIP

[@Pinkkermit17]

I sobbed through this entire thing, this young lady has an amazing soul.

[@karenb3567]

My heart is broken for this young girl to have to go through losing her Dad at a young age...my heartfelt condolences go out to the family.

[@ChernobylPone]

Kinda sad indeed, now how is she going to bully everyone with the “My father is a cop he can arrest you or even end your life.”

[@Miamiflow885]

@@ChernobylPone Satans puppet you are

[@ChernobylPone]

@@Miamiflow885 Hey that’s how cop child usually act. Isn’t there a saying “don’t you dare mess with a police child, only they’re to harass anyone they want. LEO Vince Deus”

[@davidhouse7189]

I am grown man with tears in my eyes she is amazing what a eulogy

[@erikroark4]

I don’t know if you’ll ever see this young lady but you’re dad’s sacrifice hasn’t gone unnoticed. I’m sorry it came so soon. Thanks for sharing with all of us what a cool dad your dad was.

[@jerroddooley374]

I'm sorry sugar. I hope you can find peace. My heart is broken for you.

[@rhondaclark716]

Please see OSCAR EL BLUE AND STOP THE CIVIL WAR ON AMERICANS. PLEASE TELL ALL POLICE OFFICERS , AND FBI TOO

[@Brucev7]

@@rhondaclark716 Border Network News, "TEXANS AGAINST ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION" > SHEENA, Warriors For Ranchers

[@Ducky2964]

What an amazing and beautiful eulogy by the Officer’s daughter. Young lady, I don’t know you but I’m here to tell you that you did your Daddy proud. My thoughts and prayers are with the Officer’s family (both blood & blue) and friends. Rest Easy Hero! 🖤💙🖤

[@randybrooks9455]

As a Christian I want to spend time with this young lady may God continue to bless you and your family ❤️🙏

[@zamthanlian]

You have a big heart to win over the enemy. You have shown what really is the truth about Christ-centered life and what it means to walk in the light. You are the real salt of the community. We will never be perfect on this earthly journey, but what you just spoke about means the most perfection in human history. It is indeed the societal transformation we need. It is what we need in the true education of humanity in this world. May you find comfort in Jesus whom you both love and serve.

[@Ariel-iu7js]

Amen

[@lesnavar6298]

What a remarkable young woman!

[@22lyric]

Shelby, your dad's OUR hero, too. I hope you feel some strength knowing how many people care.

[@deemoo119]

Shelby, that was a great tribute. Loss is painful, more painful when taken in the line of duty 💔 RIP Officer Houston 🙏🏾

[@dited358]

The type of strength, commitment and love you'd never see from an atheist, what an embodiment of Biblical values she is.

[@jackspence1126]

What a great example for other young people. Her love and strength for her father and other people is a gift that few have at any age.

[@shelbyerin4469]

Very beautiful eulogy, my heartfelt condolences goes out to you and your family. 💙

[@anntrope491]

FOCUS ON HOW LUCKY YOU WERE TO HAVE A LOVING FATHER FOR SO MANY YEARS, & CHERISH THE MEMORIES YOU HAVE...THESE ARE THE GIFTS YOU KEEP....THEY WILL CARRY YOU THROUGHOUT YOUR LIFE...R.I.P. YOU DID A GREAT JOB RAISING YOUR DAUGHTER...SHE WILL BE O.K.

[@lifeisshort..1685]

That is such a beautiful tribute to your dad. The text message from him made me cry... you can carry that with you always. I am so sorry for your loss. Your dad sounds like a wonderful man you had the privilege to know. Prayers to you and your family. 🙏🏻❤🙏🏻❤

[@mesquitegirl2013]

Beautiful; I’m sorry for your lost thank you for your beautiful and kind heart . What a beautiful eulogy ❤️🥰

[@mayi4403]

I’m choking because I’m trying to hold down the tears but they won’t stop. 😭😭😭

[@tbarnes1444]

Do you need cpr?

[@mayi4403]

@@tbarnes1444 🤣

[@geisalagordon9966]

So proud of that young lady! Prayers for her and her family.

[@nicolefox1024]

So beautiful. I’m the daughter of a law enforcement office as well. We almost lost him in 2007. I can’t even imagine. He will always be watching over you ❤️💙

[@patrickryan2451]

Shelby you are a remarkable young lady speaking those words as you mourn the loss of your loving father ! I'm sure he is looking down upon you and is so proud of you ! Much respect and love from Ireland 👏💖

[@MadiSmiles]

Very proud of this girl for being so young, so wise, and strong. Beautiful eulogy. Beautiful girl. Beautiful father.

[@zohrael-yakoubi8626]

What a beautiful and mature young lady who found the strengh to have Mercy on her father's killer! Your dad will be so proud of you!

[@that_one1_guy]

RIP Officer Houston you will be missed

[@davedetwiler2850]

This is so beautiful. He'd be so proud of her like he always was.

[@robin9997]

Wow! This young lady spoke before her peers with grace and dignity. Beautiful words and a tribute I'm sure her fallen father would be proud of.

[@mattlewis365]

That was words from an angel...bless u for eternity.

[@pamfink4052]

This young lady has such a beautiful spirit, even though she's dealing with so much grief right now!

[@cyrus7779]

Raise up a child in the way they should go...the perfect template father in evidence here. My deepest sympathy to this daughter and her family. The spirit of forgiveness so important in a walk with Christ! Well done DAD. ❤

[@cindykuhnau2410]

What an amazing speech. I bet your Dad is proud. You have Grace beyond your years. Bless you child.

[@tonyagingerich9769]

Such a truly compassionate, loving, full of faith tribute to her dad. I’m so very sorry for her loss and all of his family. May he forever RIP in the arms of our lord. Rest easy sir you raised such a beautiful child his faith is remarkable.

[@oliviagonzales9040]

Her words are so strong and very sad I will always remember her speech and her Dad. My condolences to his family, friends and his family in law enforcement. Rip in the arms of our lord.

[@motherof2743]

What a beautiful soul - my heart goes out to this whole family.

[@coolbreeze2213]

What a lovely speech from a loving, kind daughter!

[@jasonnavarro3881]

Testimony of a true Christian

[@wildwildwest1662]

Amen 😪😪😪

[@ChernobylPone]

All Religions Matter!

[@yurireyes176]

Amen

[@aprilfox1057]

Clearly another great job by your Dad. Wonderful eulogy and delivered with such grace and honour. Your Daddy will be holding your hand at the most difficult times as you continue with your life. Be proud and smile when you look to the skies, your Daddy is smiling at his beautiful brave daughter. GBY 🇬🇧

[@luckytube22theoneandonly59]

Beautiful eulogy from his daughter.

[@Ohnooes]

As a dad with a 6 year old daughter, thank you for sharing your testimony. Bless be King Jesus! The Holy Spirit is with you and your family!!! Keep giving glory and praise to Him. Keep witnessing...being the salt and the light! You made your dad and Father in Heaven so happy with your faith! Amazing!

[@clairemacmillan6374]

What a touching eulogy such a brave ,smart young lady my condolences to you and your family RIP to your dad

[@cas9188]

I’m so proud of this young lady. So very courageous and a true witness to the grace, forgiveness and love of Jesus.

[@c79891]

I came upon this video while working on my mom's eulogy. Just an incredible young lady. What a wonderful job indeed. Respectfully, Inv. Paul Clapper, SPD/DEA, NY (ret).

[@carolinewest769]

My dad died of cancer prostate and liver last year and he was a big support system with my son and I my son has stage 3 kidney. I cried so much when I saw her speech. She did an excellent job. Thank you

[@marthashaffer7943]

She’s a beautiful person my heart goes out to her and the rest of the family. RIP

[@tstig890]

What a beautiful speech and testimony!

[@brendahernandez2364]

Your a beautiful person and your Dad can be heard within yourself. Just hearing your speech I feel a sense of great people you and your Dad. My condolences to you. Peace.

[@whatsup3581]

Oh my! What a beautiful eulogy..You were blessed to have a dad like him..

[@Anna-un4hv]

What am incredible young woman. I’m sorry for your loss honey❤️

[@rambosambolina]

She’s stronger than she knows ♥️🙏🙏

[@evelynmiranda9072]

😭😭😭😭😭Am in tears you're a wonderful daughter. He raised an exceptional women.

[@Supraordinare]

My Mom passed on 12/5. Such a difficult thing.

[@mikellecallahan516]

What a beautifully delivered loving remembrance of her father. I'm sure he is so proud of her. Prayers of Comfort to her and her family.

[@MonicaCarroll94]

You’re so strong Shelby it took real courage to speak in front of everyone at your father’s funeral you’re wise and way beyond your years! I know your dad would be so proud of you and he will always be with you. Rest In Peace officer Houston you will be so missed my thoughts and prayers and condolences are with you and your family during this difficult time Shelby! 😢💔😇

[@jetsal4297]

Man, this is beautiful. Put me to tears thinking about my dad. Her dad is proud for raising a beautiful daughter inside and out. RIP sir

[@jessicawilson2772]

What a remarkable young woman. She kept it together as well as I did for my father's funeral at 27.

[@ldcemw]

My heart breaks for your family and you. I will always think of him as he died on my birthday and I shall say a prayer of gratitude for our hero and your daddy. I appreciate his service and the sacrifices of you and your family.Hugs!

[@derick2984]

Powerful and heartful. Its never easy to see a fellow officer laid to rest. This young lady speech was touching.

[@anthonylord9857]

Heart wrenching. You did your Dad & yourself proud.

[@kelsiefletcher]

What a beautiful testimony. Especially for how she feels towards the man who took her fathers life. So mature, so full of love this young lady is. You can tell her father truly loved his family.

[@zandrastaley3840]

Very brave young lady, her dad would be so proud of her. I spoke at my brothers funeral last week & at my mums 10 years ago, i am much order & it was really hard to do so. I loved what she said & she still as her faith to, amazing young lady very proud of her xx

[@itsmeallijean]

Beautiful girl. This was a beautiful tribute. Hold those memories close in times when you want to break down. I wish I could say it gets easier to lose a parent but it doesn’t. But as time goes on the darkness turns to light. Prayers for comfort.

[@anneglines47]

She certainly spoke from the heart. Her dad is very proud of her.

[@renka99]

The spirit moved through this child in this bravest of moments. She is a true map of her parents.