Richard Arnold Gilpin Jr. passed away on Feb. 25, 2026. Richard was born on Nov. 19, 1943, in Syracuse, KS to Richard Arnold Gilpin Sr. and Hazel Jean Willbanks. He graduated from Liberal High School in 1961. On May 29, 1963, Richard married Roxanna Edie. In 1968, Richard enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably until 1975. During his military career, he attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. After his service, Richard worked in several roles, including at Tinker Air Force Base until his retirement. He later worked for Cross Timbers Forestry for several years.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, John “Butch” Gilpin and Kenneth “Pete” Gilpin, all of Kansas.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Roxanna Gilpin of Tecumseh, OK; his sister, Sue Copeland and husband Tim of KS; his sons, Rowdy Gilpin (Branda), Rusty Gilpin (Carol), and Chuck Gilpin, all of Tecumseh, OK; and his cherished grandchildren: Timothy, Erika, Monica, Chaz, Tiffany, Michaela, and Gabriel and 21 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
Services were held Mar. 3, 2026, at Bethel Acres Assembly of God, with Carol Gilpin officiating. Burial followed at Tecumseh Cemetery, under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.
