Richard "Dale" Labby

Richard “Dale” Labby stepped through the eternal gates of Heaven on October 20, 2026 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana surrounded by the love of his family.

Dale was a devout Christian who exemplified the generosity, compassion and servant-hearted love of Jesus Christ. He was known for his unwavering faith, deep love for his family, relentless work ethic, and his remarkable craftsmanship. There was little he couldn’t build or repair; earning him the affectionate title of his children’s very own personal contractor. His life was a testament to the value of hard work, the importance of serving the church & community, and the enduring power of faith and family.

An avid golfer, you didn’t dare stand in the way of him “chasing that little white ball”. He was an outdoorsman to the fullest- spending his time hunting, fishing, bush-hogging the deer lease, and always piddling in his shop. His most joyful moments of adventure were traveling across the United States and riding his motorcycle alongside his best friend, his beloved bride. And let’s not forget his obsession for boiled crabs – a love that was legendary as the man himself. Oh the hair - his crowning glory! Dale took great pride in making sure not a hair was out of place. His wonderful sense of humor and quick, wise wit were unmistakenly his own. He always seemed to know just what to say and when to say it, bringing laughter, wisdom, and a little lightheartedness to those around him.

Dale cherished the musical gifts the Lord had given him. Whether singing alongside his siblings, performing solos, joining in trios or quartets, or lifting his voice in the church choir, music was woven into the fabric of his life. He could rarely be found doing anything without humming a tune.

Following his service in Vietnam and the National Guard, he began honing the skills that would establish him as a true master of many trades. He worked as a carpenter, ironworker, and welder, before beginning his lifelong career in the Petrochemical Industry. Through the years, he served as an estimator, cost engineer, and turnaround planner/scheduler building a reputation for his dedication and expertise. After decades of hard work and commitment, he retired in September 2025.

Dale is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Cheryl Abrahams Labby; his three children, Dawnita Tapia (Rouel), Landon Labby (Khrisa), and Alayna Patterson; his brother, Robert “Bobby” Labby; his sister, Becky Turner (Willie); nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Dale was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Labby; his mother, Ella Mae Benoit Labby; and his brothers, Melvin Glenn Labby, and Don Allen Labby.

“To say loving Gramps was the easiest thing in the world would imply that it took any effort at all. We were all born loving him. And we will die loving him.”

A Celebration of Life will be held November 7, 2026 at The First Church of the Nazarene, 3940 Holly Hill Rd. Lake Charles, La. from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm.

The family warmly invites those attending to share a Scripture, story or fond memory of Dale. These treasured reflections will help celebrate his life, honor the impact he made, and preserve the memories of a man whose faith, love, and wisdom touched so many.