Richard "Ricky" DiMaggio Sr.

Richard "Ricky" DiMaggio lived life with an infectious laugh, a love for family, and a gift for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. He passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of joy, hard work, and unconditional love.

Born on October 31, 1954, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Ricky grew up in Arabi, where he developed the strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life. He spent the majority of his career at Bryan Chevrolet in Metairie as a highly respected transmission specialist. If something was broken, he was the one to call.

Ricky loved hunting, fishing, spending time on the Pearl River, and never missed an opportunity to enjoy life. He loved music, he would dance with anyone, and he could turn an ordinary afternoon into a celebration. He didn't need a special occasion to have fun—he was the life of the party even when there wasn't one. His laugh filled every room. Family and friends will forever smile remembering him saying, "Soitenly, toots!" in his best Three Stooges impression. More than anything, Ricky loved being surrounded by family. As a father, he taught his children how to have fun, laugh often, and enjoy life. He wasn't just present for the big moments—he was part of their everyday lives. He shared his sense of humor, generous spirit, and love of making memories with his children and grandchildren, creating moments they will carry with them forever.

Ricky is survived by his loving wife, Gale DiMaggio; his sisters, Jackie Scholl (Timmy) and Camille Dusang (Sidney); his children, Nicole St. Romain (Billy), Sandi Jaeger (Ryan), Richard "Lil Ricky" DiMaggio Jr. (Natasha), and Trevor Theriot; his 12 cherished grandchildren: Desmond (Carly), Anthony (Lauren), Justin, Alexandra, Lisa, Sadie, Brianne, Joey, Samantha, Victoria, Alex, and Gabe; his 2 great grandchildren, Ella and Elias.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Carol Ann DiMaggio; his parents, Joseph and Yvonne DiMaggio; and his siblings, Joycelyn Mabry and Joseph P DiMaggio Sr

Though his hands could fix almost anything, but it was his heart that left the greatest mark. Ricky will be remembered for the laughter he shared, the joy he brought to every gathering, the music he loved, the dances he never turned down, and the unconditional love he gave to his family. His memory will live on in every day spent together, every familiar song, and every smile sparked by the words, "Soitenly, toots!”

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA 70043, on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. A funeral service in Ricky's honor will follow at 1:00 pm. He will be laid to eternal rest at Cypress Grove Cemetery, 120 City Park Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124.