Richard Alan Degand

Richard Alan Degand
August 13, 1951 – November 2, 2025
Richard Alan Degand, 74, of Victoria, Texas, passed away peacefully in Victoria. He was born on August 13, 1951, in Okarche, Oklahoma, to Eugene and Ruth Degand.
Richard lived a life full of love, laughter, and hard work. While serving in the United States Army, he met the love of his life, Rhonda, and the two were married on September 27, 1974, in Ayer, Massachusetts. They shared over 51 wonderful years together, building a life filled with adventure, family, and devotion.
After his service, Richard spent many years working for ConocoPhillips as Chief Observer for a geophysics crew, a job that took him across the country and allowed him to meet lifelong friends. Never one to sit still for long, after retiring from Conoco, Richard continued working as a business manager and bus driver for St. Joseph High School and Nazareth Academy. Later, he could often be found fixing or building something as a handyman-always ready to help anyone who needed it.
Richard had a true zest for life. He loved traveling with Rhonda and their family, visiting state parks, camping, and fishing. He was an active member of the Victoria Investment Club and loved learning new things and sharing his knowledge with others. Those who knew him will remember his easy smile, his sense of humor, and his willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda Degand; his daughter, Kathrine Degand, and son-in-law, Logan Spahn; his brother, Donald Degand, and wife, Mary Degand; cousin, Steve Eby; and several beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Richard's kindness, steady spirit, and laughter will echo in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Though he has left this world, the love he gave continues to ripple through his family and friends, a quiet reminder of a life well lived and deeply loved.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Lung Association, with proceeds matched in honor of Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
Family and friends will gather for a visitation Friday, November 14, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM followed by a Funeral Service at 12:00 PM at Grace Funeral Home, 2401 Houston Hwy., in Victoria, Texas. Following the service, Richard will be laid to rest at 2:30 PM at Rockport Cemetery.