Richard “Rich” Labian passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 11,1946, in the Bronx, New York, to William and Ethel Labian.
After graduating from high school, Rich proudly served in the U.S. Navy for four years in Special Services. Upon completing his service, he moved to Arizona to pursue his education at Mesa Community College. It was there he met Kathy, his beloved wife and best friend. They married in 1972 and shared more than five decades together, building a beautiful, growing family.
Rich’s career took him to Kansas and several other states, but he and Kathy ultimately settled in Victoria, Texas, where they called home for many years. He spent much of his professional life in sales, working as a salesman, trainer, and manager. Though there was a brief time when they moved away, they couldn’t wait to retire and return to the place they loved most—Victoria. In retirement, Rich cherished the time he spent with his family and enjoyed his hobbies to the fullest.
Rich had a variety of passions, including golfing, playing fantasy football, enjoying cards, and watching his beloved Mets and Giants. He also loved taking cruises and spending time with friends. One of his favorite pastimes was being a loyal patron of the Brown Bag, where he met some of his closest friends. He also took great joy in cruising around in his convertible.
Rich is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy, and their three children: Elizabeth Pozzi (Jonathan), GinaBelle Brown (James), and Tori Labian. He is also survived by his bonus daughter, Gloria Chudy. Rich leaves behind his sisters, Jeanne Duchen and Barbra Smith, and their families, as well as his grandchildren: Koban Janak, Kyle Kunz, Kendall Pozzi, Samson Brown, Dallas Brown, Sabrina Muguerza, Jesse Brown, and Paris Brown. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Kole Janak and Khloe Janak.
Known for his big personality and outgoing nature, Rich had a way of making a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Services: A celebration of life will be held at a later date, for now please sign the digital guestbook and if you feel so inclined we would love for you to share your favorite memory about Rich.
Honorary Pallbearers: Jim Conroy, Jeff Temple, Rick Sanglovani, Rick Caputo, Jonathan Pozzi, and James Brown.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice of South Texas (https://hospice-vic.org/donate/) or Tunnels to Towers (https://t2t.org/donate/).