Richard "Ricky" Lavern Newman, Jr.

Ricky was called home by his Lord on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.

Ricky was born on July 4, 1956 in Galveston, Texas to Richard Lavern Newman and Dorothy Lee Godbehere Newman. Ricky loved growing up on the island. He spent endless days riding the seawall on his bike and later, his motorcycle as well as exploring the old military bunkers. One of his fondest childhood memories was of the whole family, including aunts, uncles, and cousins spending weekends camping on the beach.

Early in life, Ricky discovered his love of cars, and it was common to find him and his brothers "under the hood" working. He enjoyed mechanic work so much that he made it his career, eventually retiring from the city of Texas City as a heavy equipment Mechanic.

On July 7, 2007 he married his one true love and soul mate, Libby Ann Stritz. It was the happiest years for them both. They enjoyed their rides on his Honda Goldwing motorcycle, including trips to Tombstone, Arizona and Harrison, Arkansas.

Sunday mornings would find them in their usual spot at West Haven church of Christ where they worshipped and enjoyed fellowship.

Very important to Ricky were his cats, especially "Tractor" that he found as a week-old kitten on a tractor at work, and the old lady of the bunch, "Occie”.

Ricky loved life and his favorite saying was "every day is a new adventure". Joining him on many of those adventures were best friends, Pat Murphy, Pete Klentsch (deceased) and cousin, John Putnam, his "other" brother.

Left behind to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Libby and their 6 fur babies. His sisters, Sharon White and Mary McKinney (James); brothers, Russell Newman, James Newman; sisters-in-law, Angela Newman, Mary Gaspard and Arlaine Guidry (Cloyd); brother-in-law, Allen Stritz (Karan); nieces and nephews Travis White (Stephanie), Heather White, Rick White (Theresa), Brittany Mucka (Aaron), Meghan Newman, Devyn Newman, Tristan Askew and Casen Askew, Carson McKinney and Ivonna McKinney, Mike Stritz, Chris Stritz (Brandi), Cliff Gaspard (Julie), Clay Gaspard (Heather), Paul Parrish (Angel), Stacey Jarvis (Les).

He is preceded in death by grandparents, Jap and Mary Godbehere, Walter Newman and Ruth Newman; parents, Richard and Dorothy Newman; parents-in-law, Miros and Theresa Stritz; brothers-in-law, Rex White and Edward Gaspard; niece Cindy Flores and nephew, Dennis Stritz as well as his beloved poodles, Razz and Jazz and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Pallbearers are Pat Murphy, Travis White, Rick White, Tristan Askew, Aaron Mucka and Joseph Gaspard.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Ricky's name may be made to West Haven church of Christ or Gulf Coast Tiny Paws Rescue or animal rescue of your choice.

As Ricky's wife I would like to thank his compassionate team of doctors who tried so hard to save him. Our awesome, supporting family, best friends Anne, Betty and Jeanette who have gone above and beyond. And of course, our church family who’s love and prayers carried us. A very special thank you to Barry Chambers for officiating Ricky's service as well as being a wonderful friend.