November Obituaries 2006

Joycie Mire
CROWLEY – A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 10 a.m. at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church for Joycie R. Simon Mire, 78, who died Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at American Legion Hospital in Crowley.
Fr. Louis Richard, Pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, will officiate the services. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. The family requests that visiting hours
be observed Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to service time. A rosary will be recited Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Survivors include her husband of fifty-eight years, Harold Mire of Crowley; two daughters, Kathryn Rando and her husband, Felix of Marrero; Patricia Como and her husband, Brady of Broussard; three sons, Michael Martin Mire of Broussard; John David Mire of Harvey; and Harold Patrick Mire and his wife, Patricia of Crowley; eight grandchildren, Amy Billeaudeaux and her husband, Jean-Luc of Lafayette; Brian Rando of Lafayette; Laura Rando of New Orleans; Mary Claire Rando of Marrero; Brock Mire and his wife, Jennie of Kaplan; Joshua Mire of Crowley; Benjamin Como of Broussard; Katie Como of Broussard; four great-grandchildren, Louis Mire, Andrew Mire, Lily Mire and Cole Rando; one sister, Janice Reggie of Henderson, Nev.; two brothers, Oren Simon and his wife, Betty of Crowley; and Dicky Simon of Hiawaassee, Ga.; one daughter-in-law, Syd Mire of Columbia, Miss.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Mire is best remembered as "Miss Joycie" by many in Crowley who attended her Humpty Dumpty preschool. In 1964, Miss Joycie converted her living room into a classroom and opened her first school. She later acquired a small building and moved her school next to her home. She touched the lives of many in her thirty-five years of teaching.
Joycie was born in Crowley on July 9, 1928. She was active in St. Michaels Catholic Church serving as a Eucharistic minister, taking communion to nursing home residents and teaching CCD. Joycie was also very active in the community, volunteering as a Pink Lady at the American Legion Hospital, serving on the Crowley Art Association Board and countless other ways. While her children were young, she was a youth leader serving as a Blue Bird and Camp Fire Leader and school volunteer. Joycie loved working in her yard and tending to her beautiful flowers. Her yard was selected as the "Garden of the Month."
Mrs. Mire was preceded in death by her parents, Elias and Anastasia "Tazie" Simon and one brother, Elmo Simon.
Pallbearers will be Michael Martin Mire, John David Mire, Harold Patrick Mire, Brock Patrick Mire, Brian Dominick Rando, Joshua Patrick Mire and Benjamin Brady Como.
The family would like to thank the many dear friends for their compassion and care during Joycie’s illness.
The family requests memorial contributions to St. Michaels Catholic School or American Cancer Society.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.geesey-ferguson.com
Arrangements have been entrusted to Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home, 301 N. Ave. F, Crowley, 337-783-3313.

Alzina Mayfield
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 25, at 1 p.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church for Alzina Mayfield, 86, who died Sunday, November 19, 2006 at Southwest Medical Center.
Father Bob Zawacki will officiate for the services. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. A Wake will be observed Friday, November 24 from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m, at Owens-Thomas Funeral Home.
Survivors include four sisters, Lela Sam of Crowley, Leatha M. Small of Port Author, Texas; Beatrice Spencer of Atlanta, Ga.; and Mary Morgan of Crowley; one brother, Ervin Breaux of Crowley; two daughters, Margie Domingue of Rayne; and Archy Jones of Crowley; and six sons, Willie Mayfield, Wilbert J. Mayfield, Andrus Mayfield, Harrington Mayfield, Raymond Mayfield, and Anthony Mayfield, all of Crowley.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Owens-Thomas Funeral Home.

Sherry Augustus Smith
HOUSTON – Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 10 a.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church for Sherry Augustus Smith, 29, who died Wednesday, November 15, 2006 at West Houston Medical Hospital.
Father Robert Bob Zawacki S.S.J. will officiate for the services. Burial will be in South Crowley Cemetery. Visiting hours will be observed Saturday from 8 a.m. until service time. A rosary will be recited Saturday at 9 a.m. at St. Theresa Catholic Church.
Survivors include her husband, DeWayne Smith Sr.; one son, DeWayne Smith Jr.; and one daughter, Angel Smith; her parents, Carol Spenser Augustus and Michael V. Augustus Sr.; four sisters, Shelly Augustus Thomas and and her husband, Maurice; Shiela Augustus, Monica Augustus, and Nancy Augustus; two brothers, Michael V. Augustus Jr. and Shawn Augustus; her maternal grandmother, Rosella Spencer; her paternal grandmother, Irma Wright and a host of aunts, uncles and cousins.
Smith was preceded in death by two daughters, Dawana and De’shante Smith; her aunt, Nancy Spencer and her grandfather, Yancy Spencer.
She was a 1996 graduate of Crowley High School and a 2001 graduate of Grambling State University School of Education with a degree in therapeutic recreation. During her University years, she was a member of Delta Sigma Theta. At the time of her death, she was employed at Special Texas Home as a qualified mental retardation specialist.
Pallbearers include Michael V. Augustus, Jamie Evans, Elcide Plumbar III, Earl Price Jr., Mark Young, Michael Young, and Ceasar Brooks.
Omega Omega ceremony services will be inducted by the sisters of Iota Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta of Grambling State University following the wake. She leaves behind 73 line sisters.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Syrie Funeral Home in Lafayette.

David Abshire
CROWLEY – Funeral services for David Abshire, 54, of Crowley, will be held Saturday, November 25, 2006 at 12 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Matthew Higginbotham, pastor, officiating. Mr. Abshire died Wednesday, November 22, 2006 at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery #2 in Rayne.
Visitation will be observed from 10:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. until services Friday. A rosary will be recited at the funeral home at 6:30 p.m. Friday.
Mr. Abshire is survived by his wife, Josette Duhon Abshire of Crowley; a daughter, Ella (Jenny) Abshire of Pineville; a son, David Joe Abshire and his wife, Natalie, of Crowley; a granddaughter, Kyla Grace Abshire of Crowley; two brothers, Michael Abshire of Tallahassee, Fla. and Patrick Menard of Breaux Bridge; three sisters, Cindy Wiehe of Carencro, Zona Terro of Indian Bayou, and Carolyn Adkins of Rayne.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lodis Abshire and Anna Marie Menard; and a brother, Kenneth Abshire.
Mr. Abshire was employed as an offshore cook and enjoyed deer hunting and the outdoors.
Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with arrangements.
Friends may express their condolences at www.geesey-ferguson.com.

RAYNE – Howard Paul Benton, 86, died Tuesday, November 21, 2006 at American Legion Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, November 24 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will be in the St. Joseph Cemetery #2 under the direction of Duhon Funeral Home.

Lonny “Keith” Beard
RAYNE – Funeral services were held Friday, November 16, at 2 p.m. at Assumption Church in Mire for Lonny “Keith” Beard, 52, who died Wednesday, November 15, 2006 at Lafayette General Hospital.
Msgr. Harrington officiated for the services. Burial was in Assumption Mausoleum. Visiting hours began Thursday from 3 p.m. and continued until service time.
Survivors include his wife, Patsy Beard of Church Point; two daughters, Jocelyn Stevens and her husband, Shannon of Mire; and Jeannine Venable and her husband, Jacob of Church Point; his father, Napoleon Beard of Rayne; three brothers, Ronald Beard and his wife, Mildred of Crowley; Anthony Beard and his wife, Francis of Baton Rouge; and Byron Beard and his wife, Christina Beard of Rayne; four sisters, Patti Habetz and her husband, Charles of Rayne; Elaine McFarlain of Crowley; Gerradette Bordé and her husband, Joseph of Crowley; and Deborah Daigle and her husband, Larry of Church Point; and eight grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by one son, Daniel Beard Sr.; one daughter, Gabrielle Beard; his mother, Betty Faul Beard; his maternal and paternal grandparents; and one brother-in-law, Michael McFarlain.
Mr. Beard was employed with Grey Wolf Drilling for 25 years.
Arrangements were entrusted to Duhon Funeral Home of Rayne.

CROWLEY – Joseph William Robinson IV, infant, died Sunday, November 19, 2006 at American Legion Hospital. Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 21 at Woodlawn Cemetery. Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

CROWLEY – Darryl Wayne Hanks, 42, died Monday, November 20, 2006 at Camelot Nursing Home. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 21 at Duhon Funeral Home. Burial will be in the North Hanks Cemetery under the direction of Duhon Funeral Home.

Darlene Guidry
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held Monday, November 20, at 12 p.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church for Darlene B. Guidry, 45, who died Friday, November 17, 2006 at American Legion Hospital.
Father Higginbotham will officiate for the services. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Church Cemetery in Lyons Point. Visiting hours will be observed Sunday from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. and continue Monday from 8 a.m. until service time. A rosary will be recited Sunday at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Survivors include her husband, Michael Guidry of Crowley; one daughter, D Nisha Babin and her husband, John of Thibodaux; two step-daughters, Michelle Schexnayder and her husband, Lee of Crowley; and Phyllis Savoy of Arkansas; three step-sons, Kirk Guidry and his wife, Tiffany of Jennings; Craig Guidry and his wife Roxann of Lake Arthur; and Joey Savoy; her mother, Mary T. Broussard of Crowley; two brothers, Derek Broussard and his wife, Cindy of Crowley; and Damon Broussard and his wife, Lisa of Crowley; two grandchildren and two step-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her father, Leroy Broussard.
She was a base play for the Bayou Ramblers for several years.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Duhon Funeral Home of Crowley.

Rose Marie Schmid
CROWLEY – Funeral services for Rose Marie Dorr Schmid, 72, will be held 10 a.m. Monday, November 20, 2006 at Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Crowley who died Saturday, November 18, 2006 at her residence in Crowley.
Fr. Gary Schexnayder, Pastor of Saint Michael’s, will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial and the Committal service at the Woodlawn Mausoleum. The Rosary will be prayed at 7 p.m. Sunday.
Pallbearers will be Randall, Josef and Matthew Schmid, George Dorr III, Brantley Yeager and Kenneth Robison.
Rose Marie was a member of Saint Michael’s, she owned and operated Rose Marie’s Gifts and was a loving granny who enjoyed spending time with her family, grandchildren and friends.
She is survived by two sons, Gregory Allan Schmid and his wife; Donna and Kurt R. Schmid and his wife, Jeanne, all of Crowley; a brother, Arnold James Dorr Sr. of Needville, Texas; fourteen grandchildren, Christina, Matthew, Mary, Catherine, Theresa, Christopher, Randall, Heidi, Josef, Laura, Julia, David, Margaret and Jeanne Clare Schmid, all of Crowley; two nieces, six nephews and a special friend, Ray Abadie.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George Arthur Dorr Sr. and Rose Higginbotham Dorr and a brother, George Arthur Dorr Jr.
Visitation may be observed Sunday from 2 p.m. until 9 p.m. and on Monday from 8 a.m. until service time.
The family expresses special thanks to Dr. Chad Vincent, Hospice of Acadiana, The management and staff of Southwind Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and the Crowley American Legion ICU and 3rd floor nursing staff.
Friends who wish to do so may offer their condolences online at www.geesey-ferguson.com.
Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Linus Touchet
GUEYDAN- Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, November 17, 2006, at St. Peter's Catholic Church of Gueydan, for Linus Touchet, 73, who died Wednesday, November 15, 2006 at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital.
Interment will be in Gueydan Cemetery.
The Rev. Mitchell Guidry will conduct the service.
He was a native and resident of Gueydan. He was a shipping clerk with Allen Smith for 20 years and a shipping clerk with Broussard Rice Mill for 20 years and then he retired. He was a former member of the CFMA. He loved to play music, especially the steel guitar with different people and he loved to cook.
Survivors include his wife, Theresa Lee Touchet of Gueydan; two daughters, Diana Cormier and her husband, Martin of Crowley; and Donna Kibodeaux and her husband, Ross of Gueydan; his mother, Ida C. Touchet of Gueydan; four brothers, Irvin Touchet of Gueydan; Lloyd Touchet of Gueydan; Henry Touchet of Gueydan; and Lassley Touchet of Abbeville; five sisters, Evelyn Richard of Gueydan; Rose Cormier of Gueydan; Ruby Saltzman of Kaplan; Celestine LaComb of Gueydan; and Beatrice Ryder of Morse; six grandchildren; and one great grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his son, Timothy Paul Touchet and his father, Sidney Touchet.
The family has requested that visitation begin Thursday 10:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. and will continue Friday 8 a.m. until time of service.
A rosary was prayed on Thursday at 7 p.m. in the funeral home.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Matthews and Son Funeral Home of Gueydan.

Jared Hanks
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held Friday, November 17, at 2 p.m. at Duhon Funeral Home for Jared Hanks, 25, who died Sunday, November 5, 2006.
Rev. Lloyd Singley will officiate for the services. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. Visiting hours will be observed Thursday from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m. The funeral home will reopen at 8 p.m. on Friday with viewing until time of services.
Survivors include his parents, Barton and Kathy Hanks of Lafayette; his companion, Crystal Romero of Scott; two brothers, Davin Hanks of Lafayette and Kevin Hanks of Lafayette; his step-son, Collin Mason of Scott; one niece, Paige Hanks and one nephew, Gage Hanks.
Mr. Hanks was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents and his maternal grandparents.
He was in the United States Army Reserves.
Pallbearers will be John Rider, Randy Savoy, Kevin Hanks, Josh Romero, Cody Lavergne and Chris Luke.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Duhon Funeral Home.

Kathy Hanks
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held Friday, November 17, at 2 p.m. at Duhon Funeral Home Chapel for Kathy Hanks, 49, nee, Vidrine, who died Saturday, November 11, 2006 at her residence.
Rev. Lloyd Singley will officiate for the services. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. Visiting hours were observed Thursday from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m. and will continue Friday from 8 a.m. until service time.
Survivors include her husband, Barton Hanks of Lafayette; two sons, Davin Hanks of Lafayette and Kevin Hanks of Lafayette, one grandson, Gage Hanks; one granddaughter, Paige Hanks and one step-grandson, Collin Mason.
Mrs. Hanks was preceded in death by one son, Jared Hanks and her parents, Alfred and Georgie Hoots Verdine.
Pallbearers will be John Rider, Randy Savoy, Kevin Hanks, Josh Romero, Cody Lavergne and Chris Luke.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Duhon Funeral Home.

Birtell Broussard
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held Saturday November 18, at 10 a.m. at Saint Theresa Catholic Church for Birtell Minix Broussard, 84, who died Thursday, November 9, 2006 at her residence in Crowley.
Father Bob SSJ will officiate for the services.
Survivors include one son, Adoph Wright of Houston; two sisters, Ida Wright and Irma Joseph of Crowley; one brother, Murphy Minix, Jr. of Port Arthur; one step-daughter, Gailya Mayfield of Los Angeles; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Broussard was preceded in death by her husband, Hendrick Broussard; her parents, Murphy Sr., and Julia Minix; and two brothers, Percy and Ernest Sr. Minix
Arrangements have been entrusted to Duhon Funeral Home of Crowley.

Thelma Leger
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 16, 2006 at Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church for Thelma Stewart Leger, 78, who died Wednesday, November 15, 2006 at her residence in Crowley.
Fr. Gary Schexnayder, Pastor of Saint Michael’s will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial and the graveside services at Woodlawn Cemetery. The Rosary will be prayed at 7 p.m. Wednesday evening.
She is survived by her daughter, Yvonne Primeaux and her husband, Ernest of Crowley; her son, Kevin Leger and his wife, Charmaine of Crowley; her sister, Hazel S. Petry of Crowley; her sister-in-law, Gloria Stewart; three grandsons, Terrell Benton, Dakota Leger and Hunter Leger; and a great grandson, Nicholas Benton.
Mrs. Leger was preceded in death by her husband, Ellery Leger; two children, Timothy Paul Leger and Janice Ann Leger; her parents, Robert and Azena Stewart; two sisters, Edna Domingue and Mable Conner; and three brothers, Walker Stewart, Oliver "Doc" Stewart and Offard Stewart.
Visitation will be Wednesday from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. until service time.
The family wishes to thank Journey Hospice, Acadia Home Health and her family and friends for their love and support.
Friends who wish to do so may offer their condolences online at www.geesey-ferguson.com
Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Helen Cradeur
CROWLEY –"Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. If you do things, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7.
Although she has left us on Earth, she will never die with each of us. Our mom touched many hearts and affected so many people, leaving us with a smiling image of her strong faith and her caring heart. Helen Cradeur, 78, left us on Wednesday November 15, 2006 at 3:30 a.m. in Lafayette General Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.
She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Vincent Cradeur Jr.; one son Russell Cradeur; two daughters: Carolyn and her husband, Ronald Meaux; and Cynthia and her husband, Brian Doucet; eight grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
Fr. Gary Schexnayder, Pastor of Saint Michael the Archangel Catholic Church will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, November 16, 2006 with the committal services at Woodlawn Mausoleum in Crowley. The Rosary will be prayed by the Catholic Daughters Court of Saint Joseph Catholic Church at 7 p.m. Wednesday. Visitation may be observed Wednesday evening from 5 until 9 p.m. and on Thursday from 8 am until service time.
Mrs. Cradeur was a member of the Saint Joseph Catholic Daughters Court, the Family Community and Education Extension Night Club, Saint Michael’s Altar Society and the Acadia Parish Retired Teacher’s Association and she was a retired secretary of the Acadia Parish School Board.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Jean and Elydia Hebert Credeur; a sister, Sarah Daigle and two brothers, Wesley and Cleve Credeur.
Friends who wish to do so may offer their condolences online at www.geesey-ferguson.com.
Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Marie LeJeune
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, November 16, 2006 at Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home Chapel for Marie V. LeJeune, 64, who died November 14, 2006 at Abbeville General Hospital.
The family requests visiting hours to be held Wednesday from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. until the time of service.
She is survived by four sons, Tony LeJeune and his wife, Betty of Morgan City; Michael LeJeune and his wife, Lynn of Dickerson, Texas; Alvin LeJeune and his wife, Regina of New Orleans; and Darren LeJeune of Morgan City; three daughters, Lizz L. Pilgrim and her husband, Calvin of Morgan City; Bernadette LeJeune and her companion, Mary Faulk of Estherwood; and Yvette Ardoin and her husband, Lee Ray of Morgan City; ten grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren; four sisters, Sandie LeJeune and her husband, Carroll of Midland; Laura Myers of Estherwood; Brenda Leger and her husband, Rodney of Morse; and Dianna Hebert and her husband, Clayton of Basile; and three brothers, Allan Viator and his wife, Nella of Gueydan; Richard Viator and his wife, Bernice of Cameron; and Daniel Viator Sr. and his wife, Carolyn of Crowley.
Ms. LeJeune is preceded in death by her husband, Arthur LeJeune; one daughter, Angela LeJeune; her parents, Leric and Anna Hulin Viator; and one sister, Dorothy Lyons.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.geesey-ferguson.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home.

Raymond Duhon
CHURCH POINT – Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 15, at 2 p.m. at Our Lady of The Sacred Heart Church in Church Point for Raymond Duhon, 72, who died Sunday, November 12, 2006 at Opelousas General Hospital in Opelousas.
Father Dan Edwards will officiate for the services. Burial will be in Our Lady of The Sacred Heart Church Mausoleum. Visiting hours were observed Tuesday from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. and will continue Wednesday from 8 a.m. until service time. A rosary was recited Tuesday, November 14 at 7 p.m. at the funeral home chapel.
Survivors include his wife, Joyce L. Duhon of Church Point; two sons, Calum Duhon of Church Point; and Glen and Lynne Duhon of Rayne; three daughters, Melisa and Randal Guillory of Church Point; Melinda (Yankee) and Randall Arabie of Richard and Shonda and Kentry Reagan of Church Point; nine grandchildren, two great grandchildren, one sister, Wilma Eves of Houston; and three brothers, Jimmy Duhon of Dallas; Wilbur Duhon of Dallas and Roy Duhon of Crowley.
Duhon was preceded in death by his parents, Abraham and Esther Duhon and one son-in-law, Rand Bellard.
Mr Duhon was a native of Sulphur. He graduated from Sulphur High School in 1954. After high school he served his country in the United States Army, during the Korean Conflict for two years. After his years in the military, he enrolled in Baylor University College of Mortuary Science were he graduated in 1961. He started his career in Mortuary Science as a mortician and funeral director at a funeral home firm in Baton Rouge. His career moved him around at first. After working in Baton Rouge, he and his wife moved to Breaux Bridge then Deridder. He worked in Deridder for eight and a half years and then he and his family moved to Lafayette. While working in Lafayette, he managed several funeral homes which included Lafayette, Church Point, Youngsville and Crowley. After accomplishing his goal of serving different areas, he then purchased his first funeral home.
Ray and his wife purchased the first Duhon Funeral Home on Friday, August 13, 1974, the site of the Acadia Parish Health Unit today. In 1975, he built the second home. It was located on Martin Luther King Drive, in Church Point. In 1987, he started construction on the present building today, Duhon Funeral Home of Church Point. In 1991, he and his wife opened the third location on Hwy. 90 in Crowley, and in 1995 the doors opened for the fourth location of Duhon Funeral Home, located on Hwy. 90 in Rayne.
Ray was a very active person over his life. He was an active member of his community. He chaired several fundraisers, some of which were for the lights at the baseball fields in Breaux Bridge. He coached some football teams and helped start the DeRidder Duck Club.
Ray was a very active member of the American Legion. He served on committees that built two homes. The American Legion Home on Hwy. 35 in Church Point and the American Legion Home on Hwy. 35 in Branch, which today is the home of G.J.’s restaurant. He held several offices in the American Legion. He served as Post Commander for many years, Area Commander, 7th District Commander and 7th District Executive Commander. He won the highest award from the National American Legion for membership. He was a life time member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion.
Ray fought hard and believed in helping many veterans to get aid and other benefits from the veterans administration. There were many times that he even drove them to the VA Hospital.
Ray was a man of Wisdom, charity, compassion and love. He and his wife started their business helping others and caring for their customers in their time of hardship and this is the legacy that he has passed on to his wife and children that operate his business today.
Duhon Funeral Home of Church Point will be in charge of arrangements.

CHAUVIN – Arnold Remy “Poppa” Meyer Sr., 72, died Monday, November 13, 2006. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, November 15 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Chauvin. Burial will be in the church cemetery under the direction of Samart Funeral Home.

CHURCH POINT – Norma B. Savoy, 63, died Sunday, November 12, 2006 at Opelousas General Hospital. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Monday, November 13 at St. Edwards Church in Richard. Burial was in the St. Edwards Cemetery under the direction of Duhon Funeral Home.

Vincent X. Sonnier
LAFAYETTE – Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 11, 2006 at a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial in the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist for Vincent X. Sonnier, 89, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 8, 2006, at his residence in Lafayette.
Entombment will be in Fountain Memorial Gardens Cemetery Mausoleum.
Reverend Monsignor Glen John Provost, Pastor of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, will be the Celebrant of the funeral Mass and will conduct the funeral services.
Vincent X. Sonnier was born in Crowley to C.C. and Aimee Haines Sonnier. He was preceded in death by his son, V. Farley Sonnier and his six brothers, Alden, Bruce, Vernon, Edward, Paul and Earl.  
He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Duhon Sonnier and his daughter, Anne Sonnier; his three grandchildren, Stephanie Sonnier Grand, Christy Sonnier Roemer and Aimee Paige Sonnier; five great granddaughters and one great grandson.
Vincent was a reservist during WWII at the New Orleans Navy Airfield where he instructed flight. After the war, he worked as a petroleum landman for over 50 years. He was the first member of the Lafayette Petroleum Club.  Fascinated by the history of Louisiana, Vincent became well-versed on the Battle of New Orleans and lectured about this battle for various groups locally. He pursued his genealogy for several years and found the majority of his ancestors dating back to the 15th century. He was an avid member of the local genealogy club.
He enjoyed deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and hunting in the rice fields of Vermillion Parish. He rarely missed a day of hunting during the season and was asked to judge many duck and goose calling contests in the area.
Fluent in French and English, he pursued learning the Spanish language through self-study and his association with the Lafayette Spanish Club. He regularly volunteered at the Lafayette Visitor and Tourism Center in Lafayette and truly enjoyed meeting travelers with whom he could speak French or Spanish.
Vincent was an ardent and active member of the Republican Party and never missed an opportunity to vote.  He especially loved the comraderie he had with his friends of the "round table" for weekly lunch at the Petroleum Club.
He will be missed tremendously by his family and friends.
A Rosary was prayed on Friday, November 10, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. in Martin & Castille Funeral Home in Lafayette.
The family requested that visitation be observed on Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m. until time of services.
Pallbearers were David Eason, Trent Grand, Franklin Roemer, Charles Schoeffler, Edward Weeks III and Charles Chatelain.
View the obituary and guestbook online at www.mourning.com.
Martin & Castille Funeral Home, Inc. of Lafayette has been chosen to help with the arrangements.

Nolan Albarado
RAYNE – Funeral services will be held at an 11 a.m. Mass Saturday, November 11, at St. Joseph Catholic Church for Nolan Albarado, 82 years old who died the morning of Wednesday, November 8 at Garden View Assisted Living Apartments in Lafayette. Entombment will be in the Gardens Catacomb Memorial Gardens Mausoleum in Rayne.
Alborado was a native of Rayne, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Albarado, and had been a resident of Lafayette since 1968. In December of 1977, he married Edith Laperous and for a short time they returned to Rayne. In August of 2005 they took up resident at the Garden View Assisted Living Apartments in Lafayette. Prior to returning to Lafayette in 2005 he was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rayne as well as a member of the Knights of Columbus
Mr. Alborado is preceded in death by his first wife Verdie Mae; his parents Mr. and Mrs. John Albarado; two brothers Ludovic and Elphedge Albarado and one sister Elmire Albarado.
Survivors include his wife Edith Albarado of Lafayette, five daughters Mrs. Jerald (Barbara) Marshall, of Abbeville, Mrs. Frank (Gwen) Rieber, of Houston, Mrs. David (Mona) Faherty of Lafayette, Mrs. Pete (Roxanne) Stewart of Carencro, Mrs. Lonnie (Jackie) Rhoads of Lafayette; one son Mr. Michael J. Albarado of Crowley; one step son Mr. Tony Laperous or Rayne; nine grandsons, four granddaughters, three great grand daughters and one great grandson.
With and eye for quality and value, Nolan started on his road to success in Rayne as co-owner and manager of the Rayne Furniture Store. It was hid dream that one day he would help everyone enjoy finer things in life. As his success and prominence grew, he moved to Lafayette and honed his management and buying skills with Delta Furniture. In 1984, he opened Albarado’s Fine Furnishings, selling only the finest, priced so that all could enjoy life long furniture. Although his success led to his retirement in July of 1991, his furniture dream and legacy live on today, through is children at Albarado’s.
Pallbearers will be Frank Rieber, Jerry Marshall, Pete Stewart, David Faherty, Dusty Rhoads, and Michael Albarado.
Visitation will be observed Friday, November 10, 2006 at 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. at Gossen’s Funeral Home in Rayne. The Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. on Friday at Gossen’s Funeral Home in Rayne.
The family would like tow extend their sincere thanks to the 4th floor medical staff at Southwest Medical Center and the staff at Garden View Assisted Living.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Robert S. LaBorde
CROWLEY – A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Sunday, Nov. 12, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Crowley for Robert S. LaBorde, 73, who died Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2006 at 3:20 p.m. at. St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital in Houston.
Fr. Gary Schexnayder, Pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, will officiate for the services. Burial will be in Woodlawn Mausoleum. The family requests visiting hours be observed Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to service time. A rosary will be recited Saturday at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Survivors include his wife, Marie Maines LaBorde of Leesville; four daughters, Angela L. King of Alexandria, Emily L. Stoma and her husband Harvey of Crowley, Roberta L. Stutes and her husband Michael of Crowley, Lisa L. Alcock and her husband Chad of Rayne, one step-daughter, Kristi Wysatta and her husband Stephen of Florien; one step-son, Ken Hutsell of Farmingham, MA; fifteen grandchildren, Gina Norris, Charlene King, Ladonna King, Leith Stoma, Annsley Stoma, Cassidy Stoma, Trevor Stoma, Michael Stutes, Emily Stutes, Vivian Stutes, Brandon LaBorde, Robert Caruso, Natalie Caruso, Amber Alcock, and Tori Alcock; nine great-grandchildren, Hallie Stoma, Hollyn Stoma, Kaylian Kaough, Kyle Kaough, Perry LaBorde, Lilian LaBorde, Amorian Queeny, Ashari Queeny, and Anina Queeny; seven step grandchildren, Demi Rushing, Devin Rushing, Haley Hutsell, Leslie Hutsell, Abby Hutsell, Haley Wysatta, and Michael Wysatta.
Mr. LaBorde was preceded in death by his first wife, Vivian Cuccio LaBorde; his parents, Florian and Alma Stewart LaBorde; one sister, Maudell LaBorde; one brother, Perry LaBorde.
Mr. LaBorde was a native of Avoyelles Parish, former resident of Crowley and a resident of Leesville at the time of his death. He retired from CLECO as a District Supervisor after thirty-eight years of service. He was a veteran of the United States Army having served his country during the Korean Conflict.
Pallbearers will be Leith Stoma, Trevor Stoma, Michael Stutes, Brandon LaBorde, Robert Caruso, Shelby LaBorde and Reaux LaBorde. Honorary pallbearers will be Harvey Stoma, Michael Stutes, Chad Alcock and Stephen Wysatta.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.geesey-ferguson.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home.

Virginia Brown
BATON ROUGE– Virginia "Jean" Dronet Brown, a loving wife, mother and grandmother, passed away on Tuesday, November 7, 2006, at her home in Baton Rouge.
A retired day-care owner, she was 59 and a native of Crowley. Visitation began at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., on Wednesday, November 8, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., continue on Thursday from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. and again on Friday from 8 a.m. until service time. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church on Friday, November 10, at 11 a.m. Interment will be in Greenoaks Memorial Park.
She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Stanley Brown Sr.; three sons, Stanley Brown Jr., Kenneth Allen Brown and wife, Amanda; and Brady K. Brown; two sisters, Shirlene Lanthier and Verline Hanks; brother, Donald Dronet; and many loving nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Breakness and Mary Simon Dronet; and her mother-in-law, Grace Mary Brown.
She loved to go shopping, play cards and fish.

Herman Moore
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held Friday, November 10, 2006 at 11 a.m. at Jerusalem Baptist Church for Herman R. Moore, 78, who died Sunday, October 29, 2006 at Baton Rouge General Hospital. Visiting hours will begin at 8 a.m. until time of service.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff of Home Health Care 2000, VA Medical Clinic in Jennings, American Legion Hospital in Jennings and Crowley, Crowley Rehabilitation Hospital, Capitol House Nursing Home in Baton Rouge and Baton Rouge General Hospital.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Raphael and Sons Funeral Home of Lafayette.

Wallace Hargrave
BATON ROUGE – Wallace John Hargrave, 75, passed away at his home in Baton Rouge on Sunday, November 5, 2006. He was born in Crowley and grew up in the rice fields of Lyons Point. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict.
Wallace was a 1959 graduate of Louisiana State University in Civil Engineering. He was a career state employee having worked 16 years with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. He transferred to the Atchafalaya Basin Levee District from which he retired with over 30 years of accumulated state service.
He had been a member of the Louisiana Society of Civil Engineers, Louisiana Association of Land Surveyors, Rotary International Port Allen and Baton Rouge Chapters. The American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and he worked closely for many years with the US Army Corp of Engineers on levee projects and as an active participant in the National Water Resources Conferences.
Mr. Hargrave was also self-employed as a civil engineer and land surveyor spanning over 40 years doing work for numerous citizens in East and West Baton Rouge, East and West Feliciana, Pointe Coupee and Iberville Parishes.
Visitation was observed at Greenoaks Funeral Home, 9595 Florida Blvd., on Tuesday, November 7 from 5pm to 9pm and will resume on Wednesday from 11 am until religious services at noon. Interment to follow in Greenoaks Memorial Park.
He is survived by his wife, Judy Brouillette Hargrave; and his daughter, Patricia Landry and her husband, Arthur of Baton Rouge. He leaves a very loving extended family of daughters and sons, Lynette Thomas of Geismar; Clarence (Chuck) and Sally Chenevert of Geismar; Robert Chenevert of Baton Rouge; and Alison and Bryan Thibodeaux of Geismar. He has seven grandchildren, Joel and wife, Lisa Fontenot of Baton Rouge; Rebecca and husband, Jose’ Reyes of Lakewood, Calif.; Danielle M. Landry of Baton Rouge; Jeffery Caldwell of Canada; Brad Morgan of Geismar; Janee’ Caldwell and Justin Caldwell, both of Denham Springs. He is also survived by four great grandchildren, Alec Fontenot, Taylor Chenevert, Brock Thibodeaux, and Sydney Grace Thibodeaux; five brothers and sisters, Vernice and Ida Hargrave of Crowley; August and Louise Hargrave of Franklin; Mandy Rose and Luma Simon of Winnie, Texas; Cecilia and Glen Jones of Dallas, Texas; and Marie and Raleigh Miller of Rayne; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his first wife of 43 years, Stella B. Hargrave and his parents, John and Sarah Broussard Hargrave. He will always be loved and missed.

Dorothy “Dot” Lyons
CROWLEY – A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, Nov. 9, 2006 at 2 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Mermentau for Dorothy "Dot" Viator Lyons who died Monday, November 6, 2006 in Crowley following a short battle with liver cancer.
Fr. Gary Schexnayder will officiate for the services. Burial will be in St. John the Evangelist Cemetery. The family requests visiting hours be observed Wednesday from 12:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A rosary will be recited Wednesday at 7 p.m. by Fr. Donald Pousson.
Survivors include her husband, Roy A. Lyons of Crowley; one daughter, Jessica L. Fruge and her husband, Dennis of Iota; two grandsons, Reagan LeBlanc and Jack Fruge both of Iota; five sisters, Elsie Marie V. Lejeune of Estherwood; Sandie Gail V. Lejeune and her husband, Carroll of Midland; Laura V. Myers of Estherwood; Brenda Sue V. Leger and her husband, Rodney of Morse; and Dianna V. Hebert and her husband, Clayton of Basile; three brothers, Allan J. Viator and his wife, Nella of Gueydan; Richard D. Viator and his wife, Bernice of Cameron; and Daniel R. Viator Sr. and his wife, Carolyn of Crowley; his mother-in-law, Mrs. Jessie Morgan Burr of Tyler, Texas; and his brother-in-law, Ken Lyons of Tyler, Texas.
The family would like to express grateful appreciation to Dr. M. N. Katira and his staff, Dr. Jacque Noel and his staff, Dr. Fredric Reggenstein of Tulane Medical Center and the entire staff of Hospice of Acadiana.
Mrs. Lyons was preceded in death by her parents, Leric and Anna Hulin Viator; and two brothers-in-law, Norris Myers and Arthur Lejeune.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.geesey-ferguson.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home.

Megan Hoffpauir
RAYNE – Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, November 6, 2006 at a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Joseph Catholic Church for Megan Ann Hoffpauir, 21, who died Friday, November 3, 2006 in Lafayette.
Interment was in St. Joseph Cemetery #2.
Survivors include her son, Kelly James Hoffpauir; of Lafayette; her parents, Patrick "Pat" and Ellen Zaunbrecher Hoffpauir Jr., of Lafayette; one sister, Hannah Claire Hoffpauir, of Lafayette; maternal grandmother, Margaret Zaunbrecher, of Rayne; paternal grandfather, Patrick Hoffpauir Sr., of Rayne; maternal great grandmother, Helena Pharr, of Rayne; six aunts, Claire Stegeman, Susan Reggie, Laura Paddock, Sarah Habetz, Denise Stutes and Debbie Chirolla; four uncles, Fred, Phillip, Paul and Bill Zaunbrecher; and twenty-one cousins.
She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Glenn William Zaunbrecher; her paternal grandmother, Flo Hoffpauir; and her step-paternal grandmother, Vern Hoffpauir.
Megan was a graduate from Acadiana High School and was employed at The Body Shop as assistant manager.
A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Sunday.
Visiting hours were observed Sunday from 1 p.m. until 9 p.m. and continued Monday from 8 a.m. until services.
Arrangements were entrusted to Gossen Funeral Home Inc. of Rayne.

Pearl Arceneaux
CROWLEY – A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 8, 2006 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church for Pearl Ann John Arceneaux, 89, who died Sunday, November 5, 2006 at Southwind Nursing Home.
Fr. Matthew Higginbotham will be officiating for the time of service. A rosary will be recited Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. Visitation may be observed Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to the time of service. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery.
She is survived by two daughters, Ann Gossen and her husband Nick; and Emily Patin and her husband, Keith "Bubba" both of Crowley; four sons, James "Bubba" Arceneaux of Crowley; Freddy Arceneaux of Crowley; Edward Arceneaux of Houston; and Ronald Arceneaux and his wife, Karla of Matlacha, Fla.; thirteen grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.
Mrs. Arceneaux is preceded in death by her husband, Glady Arceneaux; one son, Robert Arceneaux; her parents, Joseph and Emily Hatty John; one sister, Helen John Bailey; and one brother, Ed John.
Condolences may be sent to the family on www.geesey-ferguson.com.
Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home of Crowley has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Gerald “James”
Meche Jr.
CROWLEY – Funeral services were held Saturday, November 4, at 3 p.m. at Duhon Funeral Home Chapel for Gerald “James” Meche Jr., 37, who died Thursday, November 2, 2006 at Southwest Medical Center in Lafayette.
Deacon Rodless LeLeux officiated for the services. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery. Visiting hours were observed Friday from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. and continued Saturday from 8 a.m. until service time. A rosary was recited Friday at 6 p.m. at the funeral home.
Mr. Meche was a native of Crowley and was known for his love of karate, kick boxing, deer hunting and motorcycles. Mr. Meche was a wonderful carpenter. Mr. Meche was well-known and will be dearly missed by everyone.
Survivors include his wife, Christina Meche of Rayne; three sons, Christopher Lee Meche, Jesse James Meche and Blaizyn James Swearingen, all of Rayne; one daughter, Nancy Irene Meche of Rayne; his mother, Irene Meche Prejean of Crowley; his step-father, Steve Lee Prejean of Crowley; one brother, Jason Mathew Meche and his friend, Sandy Seaux of Iota; one sister, Bonnie Meche Musick and her husband, Joe of Foresthill; his paternal grandmother, Esther Meche of Rayne; nine nephews; six nieces; two step-brothers; two step-sisters; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald James Meche Sr.; his maternal grandparents, John D. and Effie Mae McBride Richard; and his paternal grandfather, Dozitae Meche.
Pallbearers included Jason Meche, Aaron Broussard, J.D. Meche, Joseph “Cookie” Richard, Malcom Dupuis; and Andre’ Bernard.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Duhon Funeral Home of Crowley.

Dulva Primeaux
CROWLEY – Funeral services were held Monday, November 6, at 1 p.m. at Duhon Funeral Home Chapel for Dulva Paul Primeaux, 63, who died Friday, November 3, 2006 in at University Medical Center.
Father Matthew Higginbotham officiated for the services. Burial was in Abshire Cemetery. Visiting hours were observed Sunday from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. and continued Monday from 8 a.m. until service time. A rosary was recited Sunday at 6:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Survivors include his brother, John Primeaux of Crowley; five sisters, Rosa Guidry of Jennings; Oliva Evans of Moss Bluff; Agnes Mire of Crowley; Orelia Richard of Lyons Point; and Mercedes Mire of Crowley; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Mr. Primeaux was preceded in death by his parents, Dulva and Aretlise Hanks Primeaux; two sisters, Oliva Bourque and Ida Primeaux; three brothers, Aurelian, Valerien and Adam Primeaux; and three nephews, Clayton Primeaux, Wildes and Ricky Bourque.
Arrangements were entrusted to Duhon Funeral Home.

RAYNE – Lorita Suire, 62, died Saturday, November 4, 2006 at her residence. Funeral services were held at 4 p.m. Sunday, November 5 at Duhon Funeral Home. Duhon Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.

Robert A. Gossen
RAYNE - Funeral services were held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, November 4, 2006 at a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Joseph Catholic Church for Robert Anthony Gossen, Sr., 73, who died Friday, November 3, 2006 at his residence after fighting a courageous battle against cancer.
Born and raised in Rayne, Mr. Gossen was a lifelong farmer. His love of the land he farmed and his voracious appetite for golf and horse racing was only surpassed by his great love and dedication to his wife of fifty years, Jeanne Privat Gossen, and his nine children and thirty grandchildren.
He attended Louisiana State University and SLI, now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He then joined the United States Army during the Korean Conflict and served his country admirably before being honorably discharged. He then spent nearly five decades as a farmer in Acadia Parish. Mr. Gossen was well known throughout the agricultural community in and around Acadia Parish from a young age. He received many 4-H Awards as a young man, was named Young Rice Farmer of the Year in 1964, and served in many local organizations, including the Acadia Parish Cattlemen’s Association, the Knights of Columbus and others.
In his later years, Mr. Gossen enjoyed nothing more than being surrounded by his family. Mr. and Mrs. Gossen’s greatest joy was witnessing their nine children becoming parents and watching their families grow. His family will always remember him as great teacher of life’s lessons. They undoubtedly learned from him that people are always more important than possessions and that hard work, sun up to sun down, must be tempered with play time, be it golf, horses or simply an afternoon barbecue.
Survivors include his wife, Jeanne Privat Gossen, of Rayne; seven daughters, Janice Ware and husband Edward, of Rayne, Marie Vondenstein and husband Larry, of Rayne, Julie Savoie and husband Paul, of Rayne, Susan Bearden and husband Ray, of Pasadena, TX., Laurie Alleman and husband Gene, of Rayne, Sara Meche and husband Randy Sr., of Rayne, Josette Abshire and husband Bradley, of Lafayette; two sons, Jude Gossen and wife Vickie, of Scott, Robert Gossen, Jr., of Rayne; twenty-nine grandchildren, two great grandchildren; one brother, Raymond Gossen, of Roberts Cove; five sister, Antoinette Puissegur, of Crowley, Edna Plattsmier, of Washington, LA, Lucille Reiners, of Opelousas, Helen Arsement, of Rayne, Catherine Cramer, of Opelousas.
Preceded in death by one grandson, Andrew Robert Meche; and his parents, Nicholas Joseph Gossen and Magdelene Marie Bollich Gossen.
A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Friday.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made in Mr. Gossen’s name to Rayne Catholic Elementary, Notre Dame High School or the Carmelite Monastery in Lafayette.
Entombment is in St. Joseph Cemetery #2 Mausoleum
The arrangements have been entrusted to Gossen Funeral Home Inc. of Rayne,(337)334-3141.

Lee Burton Prather
CROWLEY - Funeral services will be held 2:30 p.m. Monday, November 6, 2006 at the Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home Chapel for Lee Burton Prather, 77, who died Saturday, November 4, 2006, 5:09 a.m. at the American Legion Hospital in Crowley, Louisiana.
Bro. Paul Theriot of Eunice congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses will conduct the funeral services and the graveside service at the Maxie Cemetery.
Mr. Prather was born July 18, 1929 in Church Point, LA to the late Joseph and Zulma Prather. He was a lifelong resident of Acadia Parish; He was a Rice and Crawfish farmer for 57 years and also worked with Sloane Tree Service. Mr. Prather loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting with his boys and grandchildren. He loved helping others and volunteering for any worthy cause.
Mr. Prather is survived by his wife, Mildred (Sis) Daigle Prather of Crowley, a daughter, Sandra Dale Marietta and her husband, Larry of Crowley, three sons, Edwin B. Prather and his wife, Marlene Murrell of Crowley, Travis and Colin Prather of Crowley; two brothers, Ernest Prather of Opelousas and Nathan Prather of Lafayette; two sisters, Ruby Sloane of Crowley and Sue Prather of Virginia; nine grandchildren, Tracy Theriot, Jodie Marietta, Elizabeth Brown, Amy Medeiros, Corie Prather, Shelly Prather, Jennifer Murphy, Erin Guidry and Michael Prather and 13 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Benjamin and Zulma Matte Prather and a son, Edward Benjamin Prather.
Visitation may be observed Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. and Monday from 8:00 a.m. until service time.
Friends who wish to do so may offer their condolences online at www.geesey-ferguson.com

RAYNE – Adam Raynes Trahan, 83, died Thursday, November 2, 2006 at American Legion Hospital. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m., November 4 at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial will be in the St. Joseph #2 Cemetery under the direction of Duhon Funeral Home.

Brian Walker
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held Friday, November 3, at 2 p.m. at the Duhon Funeral Home Chapel for Brian Walker, 27, who died Wednesday, November 1, 2006 in at his residence.
Father Chris Campo will officiate for the services. Burial will be in Maxie Cemetery. Visiting hours will be observed Friday from 9 a.m. until service time.
Survivors include his wife, Hannah Walker; one son, Brian Wesley Walker; one daughter, Rhiannon Mae Walker; his parents, Jerry and Celenia Walker; two brothers, Allen Walker and Craig Walker; two sisters, Deanna Pryor and Veronica Domingue; and his maternal grandmother, Ray Rilda Coon; a host of nieces nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
Walker is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Floria Treadwell and William Albert Walker; his maternal grandfather, Horace Smith; one aunt, Roxanne Smith; and one uncle, Horace Ray Smith.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Duhon Funeral Home.

Rita McGrath
LAFAYETTE – A Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2006 at 11 a.m. in La Chapelle de Martin & Castille for Rita Isabel McGrath, 67, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 1, 2006 at her residence in Lafayette.
Reverend Monsignor John McGrath will officiate the services.
Survivors include one sister, Mary Abraham of Gauthier, Miss.; two brothers, Robert McGrath of Gautier, Miss. and Monsignor John McGrath of Vancleave, Miss.
She was preceded in death by her parents,  John GR McGrath and Corabell Grant McGrath; and one brother, James McGrath.
A native of Ohio and resident of Lafayette for most of her life, Miss McGrath was a loving daughter, sister, and friend to all who knew her. She was a member of the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church Community. Miss McGrath was employed as a teacher until her retirement. She taught at St. Thomas More High School for over 23 years, where she was a member of the founding faculty and was head of the history department. She also taught at Notre Dame in Crowley. Miss McGrath enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, and will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved her.
The family requests that visitation be observed on Saturday from 9 a.m. until time of services.
View the obituary and guestbook online at www.mourning.com.
Martin & Castille Funeral Home, Inc. of Lafayette has been chosen to help with the arrangements.

Maud Black
CROWLEY – Funeral services for Maud Angeline Hollowell Black, 93, of Crowley, will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, November 3, 2006 at First Baptist Church in Crowley with the Reverend Roger Tarver, pastor of First Baptist Church, officiating. Mrs. Black died Tuesday in Crowley. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. Visitation will be observed from 3 p.m. until 10 p.m. Thursday and again on Friday from 8 a.m. until service time.
Mrs. Black was a born and reared near Princeton, N.C. She was a graduate of Duke University School of Nursing, and spent thirty-nine months serving overseas during World War II with the Duke University Unit, achieving the rank of First Lieutenant.
Following the war, she had a variety of jobs in nursing, her last being an instructor of nursing with the Southwest Louisiana Vocational School in Crowley for 25 years. She received several honors during her career including the Meritorious Award in 1969 by the Louisiana Vocational Association, Outstanding Practical Nursing Instructor awarded by the Louisiana Health Occupations Instructors organization in 1984, and the Outstanding Crowley Citizen Award in 1991.
She was an active member of the First Baptist Church. She was also a past president of Delta Kappa Gamma, Beta Delphian Study Club, Acadia Council on Child Abuse and a member of The American Association of University Women and The Pink Ladies Auxiliary.
Mrs. Black is survived by three daughters, Anna Lee Hoffpauir and her husband, Van, of Lake Charles; Bonnie Johnson and her husband, Lyle, of Crowley; and Mildred "Millie" Allison Black of Lafayette; and a son, David Black Jr. and his wife, Cindy, of Lafayette; six grandchildren, David Hoffpauir and his wife, Melissa "Missy," Martin Hoffpauir and his wife, Nina; Kelly Hoffpauir Champagne and her husband, Aaron; David Black III; Brennon Black and his wife, Melissa; and Jared Johnson; four great grandchildren, Hannah, Halie, Harley, and Luke Hoffpauir; a brother, Edwin Hollowell and his wife, Susie of New Bern, N.C.; two sisters, Doris Gurley of Gainesville, Fla, and Mildred Parker of New Bern, N.C.; a sister-in-law, Coral Woodworth of Ft.Collins, Co.
She was preceded in death by her husband, David E. Black Sr. and a brother, Heywood Hollowell.
The family requests that those who wish may make memorial donations to United Community Health Clinic, 450 Moosa Blvd., Suite E, Eunice, LA 70535.
Friends who wish to do so may offer their condolences online at www.geesey-ferguson.com.

Michelle Lambert
CROWLEY – Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. today, Wednesday, November 1, 2006 in Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home Chapel in Crowley for Michelle Marie Lambert, 19, who died early Sunday morning near Kaplan as the result of an automobile accident. Interment will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Crowley. Officiating for the services will be Reverend Joe Talhelm, pastor of the Ebenezer Nazarene Church, assisted by Reverend Lynn Whitaker.
Visitation was observed from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. Tuesday and again today from 8 a.m. until service time.
Survivors include her mother, Linda Pritchett of New Port Ritchey, Fla.; a brother, Joshua Paul Royner, and a sister, Misty Dawn Pritchett, both of Alexandria.
She was preceded in death by her father, Elvin Raymond Lambert and her maternal and paternal grandparents.
Friends who wish may express their condolences at www.geesey-ferguson.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Geesey-Ferguson Funeral Home of Crowley.

Crowley Post Signal • 602 North Parkerson Avenue • Crowley, LA
Ph: 337-783-3450 • Fax: 337-788-0949