Through sickness and health, Robert and his wife, Vickie, shared an enduring love.
Highlights
- Despite his impressive achievements in both sports and law, Robert Giblin prioritized family above all else, retiring from his legal career in 1999 specifically to dedicate more time to his loved ones.
- His marriage to Vickie Drawhorn was remarkably enduring, lasting 46 years until his death, and together they created a life centered around their daughters Jacqueline and Madeline, who both eventually settled in Austin, Texas.
- Giblin’s impact on his community was significant, with respected figures like Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick remembering him not just for his professional achievements but for his wonderful personality, great mind, and sense of humor.
Robert James Giblin carved an impressive path through professional football and law before his recent passing in 2025.
His journey began in Omaha, Nebraska, where he was born before his family relocated to Southeast Texas.
At Port Neches-Groves High School, he emerged as a standout athlete, particularly excelling as a wide receiver.
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 205 pounds, Giblin’s athletic prowess earned him a spot at the University of Houston, where he played cornerback from 1971 to 1974.
His exceptional performance led to All-American honors in 1973 and 1974, culminating in his selection by the New York Giants in the fourth round of the 1975 NFL draft.
After two years with the Giants, he moved to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he played until 1978.
Following his NFL career, Giblin pursued higher education, graduating from Lamar University in 1980 before earning his law degree from the University of Houston in 1982.
He returned to Southeast Texas, where he built a distinguished career as an attorney at Provost Umphrey, earning respect from colleagues and clients alike before his retirement in 1999.
Robert Found a Lifetime of Love and Support in His Wife, Vickie
In 1978, Robert found his life partner in Vickie Drawhorn, a hometown love who would become his wife of 46 years.
Together, they created a beautiful family life centered around their daughters, Jacqueline and Madeline.
Vickie stood by Robert’s side as they built their life in Port Neches, Texas, supporting their daughters’ endeavors and creating countless memories together.
The couple’s dedication to family was evident in their involvement in their children’s lives.
Their older daughter Jacqueline followed in her father’s legal footsteps, graduating from South Texas College of Law in 2010.
That same year, Vickie and Robert celebrated Jacqueline’s marriage to Bradley Jordan Reeves in a beautiful ceremony at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Galveston.
As parents, Vickie and Robert prioritized family time, whether it was Robert driving their daughters to school or the family enjoying beach vacations together.
Their home became a center of joy and celebration, with Robert often taking charge of the grill while Vickie helped create the warm, welcoming environment they were known for.
The couple’s love story faced its greatest challenge when Robert developed chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), an autoimmune illness that he battled with Vickie by his side.
Throughout his illness, their bond remained unshakeable, with Vickie providing support and care until his passing on February 19, 2025, at the age of 72.
Vickie’s life with Robert was filled with moments both grand and simple.
Together, they celebrated their daughters’ achievements, welcomed grandchildren Jamie and Aria, and created a legacy of love that extended beyond their immediate family.
As noted by Robert’s sister-in-law, Nan Laing,
“He was larger than life. But his family was his legacy. Nothing meant more to him.”
KFDM
Those who knew the couple witnessed their dedication to each other and their family.
Today, Vickie carries forward their shared memories and the legacy of a man who was not just a professional athlete and respected attorney but a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
Additional Information
- He earned letters in three seasons during his time at the University of Houston, demonstrating his consistent high-level performance as a college athlete.
- His athletic achievements earned him a place in the Museum of the Gulf Coast Sports Hall of Fame, where an exhibit showcases his three-year professional football career.
- According to his niece Leah Barnes, he was known for sharing photos of himself tackling famous football stars like Roger Staubach and O.J. Simpson, though she emphasized that his fun-loving personality was his most memorable quality.
