Eugene "Gene" Paul Thibodeaux

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Eugene “Gene” Paul Thibodeaux, who departed this life on May 27, 2025, at the age of 86½. A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Gene made his home in Covington, Louisiana, where he built a life rich in love, adventure, and service.

Gene was the devoted husband of Pamela Thibodeaux, with whom he shared 61 wonderful years of marriage. He was the beloved son of Paul Thibodeaux and Lois B. Fallo. He was a loving father to Lisa Metevier (John Metevier), Jean Thibodeaux (Jennifer Thibodeaux), Ronnie Thibodeaux (Jeannine Thibodeaux), Dianne Hebert, and Paul Thibodeaux. His legacy continues through his seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Lois Van Dyke.

A pioneer in his field and a true outdoorsman, Gene’s passions included hunting, farming, fishing, and spearfishing. His career as an offshore diver and construction expert earned him widespread respect and recognition. Over the years, Gene held numerous records in spearfishing, helped pioneer mixed gas diving, saturation diving, and revolutionized hyperbaric and wet welding techniques. His contributions to the industry included laying the first offshore telephone cable in the Gulf of Mexico, numerous inventions, and achieving the incredible feat of removing a record 42 offshore platforms in a single year, all while never having an OSHA recordable. His unwavering commitment to safety and excellence set a standard admired by many.

Gene will be remembered as a man of resilience, integrity, and generosity. His impact on his family, friends, and profession will never be forgotten. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy of wisdom, mentorship, and strength will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A service to celebrate Gene’s life will be held on June 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Bagnell & Son Funeral Home, 75212 LA-437, Covington, LA 70435. The family deeply appreciates your thoughts, prayers, and support during this time of loss.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Gene's name to be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation in the efforts to find a cure for Parkinson's Disease or the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation to enhance the enjoyment of Louisiana's natural beauty, with the links below.