Wilbur Phillip Guidry, a resident of Parks, was born in Verdunville on January 9, 1933. Wilbur passed away September 13, 2024 surrounded by his loving family in Parks, at the age of 91.
Well respected by all who knew him, Wilbur was hard working, artistic, and a jack of all trades. He was intelligent, independent, funny, loyal, honest, and stern and stubborn when required. In his youth he served his country during the Korean War as an Army anti-aircraft gunman. He loved spending time in the swamps of South Louisiana, sharing his knowledge and expertise along the way. As a great storyteller, he was eager to share humorous anecdotes of his life and the escapades of himself and his siblings.
He was a Captain on workboats in the Gulf for many years. Wilbur was an excellent woodworker; besides being able to build a boat from bow to stern, or refurbish a well-worn craft, he also loved creating useful, unique gifts for friends and family. During his retirement he lived on a houseboat, and helped a neighbor build a 35-foot bateau. He also enjoyed trotline fishing, gardening, and he meticulously took care of his home and property.
At the end of his life, although his body became tired and his mind became forgetful, he was quick with a wide smile and an “I love you” to those he cared for. Wilbur will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Wilbur is survived by his wife of 50 years Elizabeth “Betty” Ann Schmitt Guidry; daughters Peggy and her husband Kashi Charepoo of Windsor Colorado, Phyllis and her husband Garry Graff of Youngsville, and son Richard of Parks; grandchildren Jade Thibodaux, Robert Probst III, Thomas Probst, Dennis Smith, Scott Hebert, and Sean Guidry; 14 great-grandchildren; and two brothers Lynwood Guidry, Calvin Guidry and his wife Louella, and sister Dorothy “Dot” Costin.
He is preceded in death by his parents Marcelain and Elda Mae Aucoin Guidry; and brothers Leroy, Edward, and Lovelace Guidry.
A Bahá’í funeral service will be held Friday October 4th, followed by visitation at Twin Cities funeral home in Morgan City from 12-3pm.