Robert James Giblin, known to those who loved him as “Gib” or “Big,” passed away on February 19th after a long battle with an autoimmune illness (chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy [CIDP]). He was the life of the party, a friend to all who knew him, and an exceptional athlete, lawyer, father, and grandfather.
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Gib moved with his family to Southeast Texas, where he became a standout athlete at Port Neches-Groves High School. A star wide receiver, he continued his football career at the University of Houston, playing cornerback from 1971 to 1974, where he earned letters in three seasons. He earned All-American honors as a defensive back in 1973 and 1974 before making it to the big leagues, getting drafted in the 4th round of the 1975 draft by the New York Giants. He played with the Giants for two years before getting traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, playing with them until his retirement in 1978.
Robert retired from professional football to avoid further injuries and went on to earn his law degree from the University of Houston in 1982. As a respected attorney with Provost Umphrey, he excelled in his legal work before ultimately retiring in 1999 to dedicate himself fully to his family.
In 1978, Robert married his hometown love, Vickie Drawhorn, and together they built a life centered around their two daughters, Jacqueline and Madeline, who became his world. He loved nothing more than cheering on his children and grandchildren in all their athletic and creative pursuits. A man of boundless energy and generosity, he filled his days with the things he loved—golfing, spending time on the water, and traveling to beaches across the world with his family. He also found great joy in the simple moments, like driving his daughters to and from school and manning the grill at home.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Vickie Giblin; their daughters Jacqueline Reeves, her husband Brad and their children Jamie and Aria of Austin, Texas; and his daughter Madeline and her husband Sam Ogden of Austin, Texas. Robert is also survived by his brothers Ronnie Giblin and wife Suzanne; brother Mike Giblin; and his sisters Sharon Haines, Katie Giblin, and Sandy Root. He is preceded in death by his mother, Viola ("Vi") Giblin; his father, Hillard Giblin; and his sister, Pam Blanchard.
A visitation will be held Monday, February 24, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM, at Melancon-Levingston Funeral Home (2001 Nall St, Port Neches, TX 77651).