Richard "Rick" Wayne LeBlanc

Richard Wayne LeBlanc, 81, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026. He was born on August 12, 1944, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Leo and Margie LeBlanc and affectionately known to his family and friends as "Ricky."

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and United States Navy for a total of six years. Following his military service, he became a dedicated world geography teacher for 25 years at Riverdale and John Ehret High Schools. He brought the world he loved through his learning and teaching to life for his students in his stories and photos of his travels.

His passion for travel was passed on to his family, as he spent most of his holidays and summers with them on road trips. He especially loved the western United States and the mountain regions. He was naturally curious about the people and places that made the world unique. He often served as a personal tour guide to his friends during their travels as well.

Richard loved sports and never missed an opportunity to watch one of his three children take the field- even if that meant traveling for days out of state.

His latest joy in life came from his beloved grandchildren- playing peekaboo as they grew, laughing at their games, and never missing a chance to love on them.

Richard will be remembered for his kindness, his calm demeanor, and the steady presence he brought to those around him.

A husband, father, brother, "Paw Paw," and friend, Richard’s memory will live on in the lives he touched through stories and happy memories, and within the family he loved so deeply.

He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Bonnie LeBlanc; his children, Jessica LeBlanc, Rickey LeBlanc (Amanda), and Maggie Hitz (Noah); and his four cherished grandchildren, Scarlett LeBlanc, Felicity LeBlanc, Finn Hitz, and Sadie Hitz; his sisters, Judy Gauthtreaux and Cindi Hereford (Mike); his brother-and sister-in-law, Ricky and Bobbie Gibbs; as well as many nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Visitation will be held this Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, 6425 West Metairie Avenue, Metairie, LA, from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm, followed immediately by a Funeral Mass at Noon, and then a reception. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice in Rick's honor.