Richard "Chief" Arnold Gilpin Jr.

Richard Arnold Gilpin Jr., 82, of Tecumseh, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026.

Richard was born on November 19, 1943, in Syracuse, Kansas to Richard Arnold Gilpin Sr. and Hazel Jean Willbanks. He attended Liberal High School and graduated with the Class of 1961.

Following high school, Richard worked various jobs before meeting the love of his life, Roxanna Edie, in Kansas.

On May 29, 1963, Richard and Roxanna were united in marriage, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned 63 years. To this union were born three sons: Rowdy in 1965, Rusty in 1968, and Chuck in 1972.

In 1968, Richard enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably until 1975. During his military career, he attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. After his service, Richard worked in several roles, including at Tinker Air Force Base until his retirement. Never one to remain idle, he later worked for Cross Timbers Forestry alongside Timothy Cannon for several years.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, John “Butch” Gilpin and Kenneth “Pete” Gilpin, all of Kansas.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Roxanna Gilpin of Tecumseh, Oklahoma; his sister, Sue Copeland and husband Tim of Kansas; his sons, Rowdy Gilpin and wife Branda, Rusty Gilpin and wife Carol, and Chuck Gilpin, all of Tecumseh, Oklahoma; and his cherished grandchildren, Timothy, Erika, Monica, Chaz, Tiffany, Michaela, and Gabriel, a total of 21 great-grandchildren. along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Richard will be remembered for his steadfast dedication to his country, his strong work ethic, and above all, his unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday March 2, 2026, at Cooper Funeral Home, Tecumseh, Oklahoma continuing through to service time, with family gathering to greet friends and loved ones from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday March 3, 2026, at Bethel Acres Assembly of God, with Carol Gilpin officiating. Burial will follow at Tecumseh Cemetery, under the direction of Cooper Funeral Home.