Delbert Richard

Opelousas - Memorial services for Delbert "Rit" Richard, known to many as "The Tractor Man" will be held at a later date.

Mr. Richard, age 65, was born in Beaumont, Texas, and was a longtime resident of Opelousas, LA.  He passed away on Sunday, December 20, 2020, at his home surrounded by his family.

Mr. Richard was a tractor mechanic for over 40 years and was a talented person who was a master of all types of tractor repairs which made him known as "The Tractor Man."  He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends especially his grandchildren.  He was a fanatic for cooking barbeque on the pit regardless of the weather conditions while sitting on the patio at the table.  He enjoyed being in the presence of others which made his home equipped with the "Open Door Policy" which  welcomed everyone.  He loved watching Saints and LSU football games, playing cards, and going to the casinos. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Laura Fontenot Richard of Opelousas; two sons, Shaun (Aida) Fontenot of Biloxi, Mississippi; and Kevin (Krystal) Richard of Opelousas; two daughters, Susan (Dustin) Robin of Port Barre; and Ashley Richard of Opelousas; four brothers, Wayne (Patti) Richard of San Angelo, Texas; Joe (Elaine) Richard of Grand Prairie; Bobby (Mary) Richard of Opelousas; and Jimmy (Kim) Richard of Opelousas; one sister, Kathy (Paul) DiCapo of Rosa; and 11 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Avie Richard, Sr. and Josephine Lalonde Richard; and one sister, Mary Catherine Richard.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations in honor of Mr. Richard's memory can be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the online guestbook at www.lafondardoin.com.

LaFond-Ardoin Funeral Home, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA 70570, (337-942-2638) has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.