Prosper Joseph "Butch" Richard, a devoted family man, faithful caregiver, and skilled pipefitter, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, in Groves, Texas. Born on May 4, 1947, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Prosper’s life spanned nearly eight decades of dedication, love, and service.
Prosper proudly served his country as a member of the Army before embarking on a career as a pipefitter for Gulf Oil and Chevron. Throughout his professional life, he earned the admiration of his colleagues for his unwavering work ethic and commitment to excellence.
He was a man of faith and service. A member of St. Elizabeth Catholic Church and the Groves Knights of Columbus #3491, Prosper found deep faith and fellowship within his community. His leisure hours were often spent in the woods with his brother, sons, and grandsons. He loved traveling and dancing with his beloved wife, Cynthia, his soul-mate of 58 years, whose memory he cherished dearly.
Prosper’s greatest joy was found in the company of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was proud of supporting his family and was glad to take any burden for the sake of others.
Prosper is survived by his sons, Randy Richard and his wife, Ericka, of Bridge City; Darrell Richard of Nederland; and Russell Richard and his wife, Charlotte, of Groves. His loving grandchildren include Kailin Wyble and her husband, Eric, of Hamshire; Rachel Bacon and her wife, Bailee, of Orange; Joseph Thibodeaux of Dayton; Erin Thibodeaux and Ayden Thibodeaux, both of Bridge City; and Alex and Blake Richard, both of Groves. He also delighted in the bright spirits of his great-grandchildren, Karsin, Everly, and Quinn.
Prosper’s siblings, who shared in his life’s journey, survive him as well: his brother, Rodney Richard, and his wife, Vicki, of Manvel; and his sisters, Paulette Hidalgo and her husband, Robert, of Nederland, and Debra Fenner and her husband, Tommy, of Silsbee.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Cynthia Richard and his parents, Saul and Rose Richard.
The family will honor Prosper’s memory with a series of memorial services to be held on June 26, 2026, at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home, avenue H, Nederland, Texas. The day will begin with a Rosary at 10:00 a.m., followed by visitation at 10:30 a.m., and a Funeral Service at Noon. Following these, a Graveside Service will take place at Memory Gardens Cemetery at 1:15 p.m.
Prosper Joseph "Butch" Richard leaves behind a legacy of steadfast devotion and service—to family, faith, and community—that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate to know him. His life was a testament to enduring love, commitment, and the simple joy found in shared moments of happiness and support. In remembering Prosper, we celebrate a man whose quiet strength touched so many and whose memory will forever be cherished.