Richard Samuel “Rickey” Gilbeaux, 82, was born on July 29, 1943, and passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at his home in Orange, Texas.

Rickey’s younger days started at St. Mary’s Catholic school where bicycles turned to racing, cars, boats and motorcycles. His youth days were spent running around on the drag and being mischievous with his brother and buddies.

Rickey was the Founder and longtime local business owner of Gilbeaux’s Towing, since 1981. He started and created a legacy with just one wrecker, to later grow a current fleet of thirteen wreckers and many loyal employees. His business was his pride and joy which he has proudly passed on to his son, Chad.

Rickey built more than a business. He built relationships, friendships, and a reputation around the area. Everywhere he went, people knew him, and more importantly, they had a story about him. His day-to-day was reaching out to all his cherished friends and family that truly were his life. Cajun and Italian were his roots, to which he enjoyed dining out - he knew all of the good eating spots.

Rickey lived life his way, strong willed and strong minded, his way or no way.

Rickey, “until death do us part” is survived by his wife of 51 years, Susan; his son, Chad and wife Rebecca; his daughter, Kristin and husband Matt; honorary bonus son Robbie Rider. His grandchildren Kalee and Presley Gilbeaux and Taylor Brier. His brother, Raymond Gilbeaux and wife Joann; brothers-in-law, Tugie and David Thomas; sister-in-law Jodie Gunter; along with numerous nieces and nephews who loved their Uncle Rickey.

Rickey is preceded in death by his mother and father, Loyd and Mary Gilbeaux; his aunts, Cat and Jo Loiacano; brother, Jerry Gilbeaux; and sister in law, Anita Hinds.

We will remember Rickey at a visitation/gathering at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas, Tuesday June 9, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00pm. A burial will be held privately.