Richard Joseph Eldridge

Richard Joseph Eldridge, born on January 13, 1941, passed away on February 9, 2026, at the age of 85.

Richard is survived by Joann Kilpatrick Eldridge; their children, Duane Eldridge and Erin Eldridge; grandchildren, Ashley Jones (Ethan) and Breigh Eldridge; great-grandchildren, Landon Jones, Camden Jones, John-Luke Jones and Jack-David Jones; as well as his siblings, Glenn Eldridge (Flavia), Michael Eldridge, Danny Eldridge (Judy), Percy Eldridge, Linda Viator (late, Stanley Viator), Mary Ann Eldridge and Kathy Goss; and his Godchildren, Nina Lloyd, Kerry Viator and Katie Faucheaux.

Preceding him in death, are his parents, Percy Pierre Eldridge Sr. and Beatrice Simoneaud Eldridge; his infant brother, Percy Pierre Eldridge Jr., brothers, Jimmy Eldridge and Gerard Eldridge (surviving spouse, Ruth Gee Eldridge); and his granddaughter Victoria Eldridge.

Richard was known around Jeanerette simply as "Coach", a title that stayed with him long after the whistles were put away. For more than 20 years at Jeanerette Senior High, he dedicated himself to teaching and coaching, guiding young people with expectations, encouragement, and lessons that reached beyond the court and the classroom. Sports weren't just something he coached, he enjoyed following his favorite sports teams, basketball, baseball and football. He enjoyed shooting pool, playing poker, and a little friendly gambling, confident that persistence would eventually pay off and holding onto the dream that one day he'd finally win the lottery. Richard was a businessman and entrepreneur, steady and determined in all he pursued. He carried himself with a serious demeanor, the coach in him never really retired, but beneath that firm exterior was a man who loved his family; especially cherishing and spoiling his grandchildren. His stubborn wit, strong opinions, and unmistakable presence will be missed, remembered often, and quoted for years to come.

The family extends their sincere gratitude to his devoted caregivers, Ms. Vicki Gilliam and Regina Verret, and to Hospice of Acadiana, especially his nurse, Marcy Walker, for the compassionate care and kindness shown to him and to our family during such a difficult time.

Family and Friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass being held on Monday, February 23, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church of Jeanerette for 11 am. A Rosary will begin at 10:30 am and gathering will immediately follow Mass at the church hall until 2:30pm.

In lieu of flowers the family request that monetary donations be made in Richard's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. To donate in honor of someone when making an online donation, select "Dedicate your gift…" and fill out the required fields before completing your transaction.

Online Donations - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

You may donate my mail, by filling out the following Printable Donation Form and mailing the completed form to:
501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105

Or make a donation over the phone by calling 800-805-5856

To send a flower arrangement in memory of Richard Joseph Eldridge, please click here to visit our sympathy store.