William Vainard Garibaldi III

William Vainard Garibaldi III was born on September 22, 1947, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late William Vainard Garibaldi Jr. and Mary Ford Garibaldi. He peacefully transitioned from this life on July 19, 2025, following a long and courageous battle with illness. Affectionately known as Bill, he was a proud product of New Orleans public schools, attending Valena C. Jones Elementary, Rivers Frederick Junior High, and the legendary St. Augustine High School. As a talented trumpet player, Bill marched with pride in St. Augustine’s renowned marching band, a prelude to a lifelong love of music and discipline. He earned a music scholarship to Dillard University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business and accounting. Over the course of his distinguished career, Bill served as an Accountant and Auditor for Shell Oil Company, Director of Internal Auditing for New Orleans Public Schools, and Director of Fiscal Affairs and Operations at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts. He was also a proud small business owner and partner in a handful of local ventures around New Orleans. Bill was a man of the outdoors. An avid fisher and skilled hunter, he found peace on the water in his boat and pride in his collection of firearms. He relished in Mardi Gras balls, community gatherings, and was legendary for hosting family and friends with warmth, food, and spirited conversation. His door was always open, and his glass was always full. Bill is survived by his devoted children: Dana Marie Garibaldi, Trina Garibaldi Bob (Terence Sr.), and William Vainard Garibaldi IV—born from his union with JoAnn Robert. He loved his children deeply and was fiercely proud of them. In turn, they honored him with unwavering care and presence throughout his lengthy illness. He was the cherished grandfather of Jovan Hughes and Terence Bob Jr., and great-grandfather of Jeilah Bob. He also leaves behind his loving siblings: Dr. Brenda Garibaldi Hatfield (Charles) of Gonzales, LA; Wanda Garibaldi Cross Liggins (Joe) of Victorville, CA; and James O’Neil Garibaldi Sr. of Denham Springs, LA. Bill’s extended circle of love includes his goddaughters, Crystal Jourdain and Tracy Kirkland, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends. Relatives and friends of the family, also priest and parishioners of Corpus Christi Catholic Church are invited to attend a Funeral Mass of Christian Burial at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 2022 St. Bernard Ave., New Orleans, LA 70117 on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 10:00am. Visitation will begin at 8:00am until 10:00am. Father Henry Davis, Officiating. Internment: Private. Arrangements entrusted to D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave. New Orleans, LA 70125.