Richard Francingues Sr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Francingues, Sr. on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. Richard passed away at his home in Gonzales, Louisiana surrounded by his family. He was a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, sibling, and friend who truly never met a stranger and was known for his jovial nature and warm personality. Richard had a special gift for making people laugh, and he could turn even the simplest moments into unforgettable memories. Whether it was a joke, a funny story, or perfectly timed antics and punch lines, he could lighten any mood and bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Richard had a generous spirit always welcoming to others, never showing up anywhere empty-handed, picking up the tab for veterans and elderly couples, or quietly fixing things behind the scenes and never admitting to it. He had a kind, sensitive nature, and he never hesitated to show his emotions often moved to tears in moments of love and joy. He was the first to tear up at a wedding or birthdays, listening to music, when reminiscing, or during an accomplishment of his family. His tears were never a sign of weakness but of his heart overflowing with emotion. 

Richard was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on January 28, 1948, and he was a 1965 graduate of F. T. Nicholls High School and was in the United States Navy. He worked in industrial sales throughout his professional career, eventually founding his own business, Allsource Company, which thrived for over thirty years. Through his strong work ethic and his ability to connect with people, he turned business relationships into long-term friendships. He was so much more than just a salesman to his customers so much so that he never truly retired still enjoying Wednesday and Friday lunches with his customers until just recently. Richard spent 55 wonderful years with his high school sweetheart and adoring wife, Mary Ann, his “Dook,” and they created a beautiful family with two children. Becoming a father and then a grandfather were roles he cherished deeply, and he loved nothing more than supporting them in everything they did. He could often be found attending their sporting events cheering them on from the sidelines. Richard was a strong man who approached illness with unwavering resolve and no complaints, and he passed away peacefully knowing that he lived a purposeful and fulfilled life. Mary Ann lovingly cared for him during his last year, and he recently told her that his only regret was having to leave his family.

 In 1981, Richard, Mary Ann, Nicole, and Richie moved into their house on DeBouchel Boulevard in Meraux, Louisiana. This move was quite unique because the house was not yet completed, but they moved into it while finishing it much on their own to begin creating those family memories that Richard cherished so deeply. Richard believed that family was life’s greatest treasure, so decades of memories were built at 2621 DeBouchel with family and friends surrounding their grand, round table in the kitchen always welcoming extras for their Sunday dinners. He instilled in his children the values of love and loyalty teaching them that family is the foundation of a meaningful life. Richard and Mary Ann’s home was always filled with warmth and laughter whether visiting at Sunday dinners, swimming in the pool, or hosting others for their family events in their home. He led by example always prioritizing time with his loved ones creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

 Richard and Mary Ann instilled the importance of family teaching that no matter how busy life becomes, Sunday remains a time for family. As he grew older, Richard took immense pride in watching his daughter and son-in-law continue the Sunday dinner tradition. Seeing his children and grandchildren gather around the same table, just as they had for years, filled his heart with joy as he cherished every moment spent with loved ones. His grandchildren adored his constant jokes and playful teasing, and he had a way of making people feel at ease always using his humor to bring people together. In 2005 after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the proud and resilient native of New Orleans moved from the city that he loved and relocated to Gonzales, Louisiana where he found a new home. 

In Gonzales, Richard again built a fulfilling life with family and friends while always staying connected to his roots. When he was younger, Richard played the piano, and his wife and children fondly remember him playing and singing John Denver’s, “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” This song was sort of a mantra of Richard’s life as he was well known (much to the chagrin of his family) for exiting the interstate to travel through small towns, and as he called it, “Just to take the scenic route.” Well, Papa, you have fought the good fight, and the time has come for the roads to take you home. You will be so very missed.

 Richard is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann Alberts Francingues; his children, Dr. Nicole Francingues Lanclos (Dr. David) and Richie Francingues, Jr. (granddog, Gus); his grandchildren, David Lanclos II, Joel Lanclos, and Aubrey Lanclos; his siblings, Raymond Francingues II (Gloria), Roger Francingues, and Elaine Francingues Landry (A.J.); and his cherished nieces, nephews, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Raymond Francingues and Evelyn Broussard Francingues.

 Visitation will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church located at 44450 Hwy 429, St. Amant, LA, 70774. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. honoring the life of Richard Francingues. After Mass, his family is confident that Richard would have loved nothing more than for all of you to join them at their home in Gonzales to celebrate his life.