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Kenwood Paul White, Sr.

Tue, 07/16/2024 - 9:37am

March 6, 1952 ~ July 11, 2024

ABBEVILLE — Memorial services will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, July 19, 2024 at Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville honoring the life of Kenwood Paul White, Sr., 72, who died Thursday, July 11, 2024 at his residence, surrounded by family. Reverend Nicholas DuPre' will officiate the services.
Kenwood was a graduate of Abbeville High School. He joined the Marine Corps Reserves in 1971 and served until 1977. He served many years as a deputy with the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office under Sheriff Ray LeMaire, followed by a career in the oilfield.
He was an avid outdoorsman and particularly loved fishing. If he were writing this, he would say he was “a world class fisherman” but in truth, I fished with him a lot, and I consider him only slightly above average. What he was great at was the art of BS, a storyteller extraordinaire, and he especially loved stirring the pot with those he loved the most, usually over a game of cards.
He also enjoyed cattle drives and cutting horses. His prize mare, Maria Solano, won the 1992 ACHA Reserve Championship under trainer Bobby Bouget. In his later years, Kenwood loved to sing karaoke with friends and have breakfast at Park Restaurant where he would “patiently” wait for coffee every morning.
He is survived by his sons, Kenwood Paul “Butch” White, Jr (Tammy), and Albert West White (Carla); daughter, Mayor Roslyn White; grandchildren, Kaylee Broussard (Jake), Kelly White (partner Reid), Kylie Langlinais (Nick), Albert White, Jr., and Gabriel White; great grandchildren, Grayson Broussard and Palmer Kate Broussard; brother, Kerry White; sister, Karen Sue Touchet; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Bernice Durr LeFort of Esther; stepfather, Rudy LeFort of Galiano; father, Minos White of Esther; sister, Katherine White; brother, Kelvin “Coon” White; brothers-in-law, Arnold “Pete” Lege and Abby Broussard.
The family requests that visiting hours be observed at Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville, 209 S. St. Charles St., on Friday, July 19, 2024 from 10:00 AM until time of services. A rosary being prayed at 10:45 AM.
The family thanks his patient caregivers Courtney, Shanice, and Amanda from Heart of Hospice; and Mrs. Lou, Alex, Blair, Kerry, and Jade who helped keep him company in the last month of his life. A special thanks to his road warrior, Mr. Jimmy Demarcay, and his Park Restaurant Angels who helped make his final days extra special. “Poor Kenwood” finally made good on his promise...” I ain’t never coming back here.”
All funeral arrangements are being conducted by Vincent Funeral Home of Abbeville, (337) 893-4661.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.vincentfuneralhome.net.

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Two arrests made in connection to July 9 homicide in Abbeville

Wed, 07/10/2024 - 10:24am

The Abbeville Police Department and Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office are investigating a homicide that occurred on Monday, July 8, at approximately 9:51 p.m.
Officers arrested Carlton Hills, 57, of 1401 Isreal Parker Dr. in Abbeville. He will be charged with 2nd Degree Murder, Obstruction of Justice, and other charges are expected. Abbeville Police also arrested Laticia Lewis, 41, of 1401 Isreal Parker Dr. in Abbeville. She is being charged with Principal to 2nd Degree Murder.
The victim is not being named at this time due to the family not being notified. Suspects were booked and transported to Vermilion Parish Correctional Center.
Abbeville Chief of Police Mike Hardy would like to thank the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in working on this investigation.
This case is still actively under investigation and Chief Hardy urges the public to provide any further information regarding this crime or any other crime by calling the Abbeville Police Department at (337) 893-2511. You may also contact our “Tips” line at (337) 892-6777. All callers may remain anonymous. Citizens may also send anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers of Vermilion by calling (337) 740-TIPS or the P3 app, which can be downloaded through the Apple App Store or at Google Play Store.

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Bryan Golden

Determination

Wed, 07/10/2024 - 9:46am

Determination is an essential component of all accomplishments. Determination is the drive that keeps you going in spite of ...

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Letter to the Editor

Wed, 07/10/2024 - 9:44am

Dear Editor: With some astonishment, I have learned that Mayor White of Abbeville did not, and has not sought City Council ...

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Marion Joseph Bessard, Sr.

Wed, 07/10/2024 - 9:39am

A Mass of Christian Burial for Marion Joseph Bessard, Sr., 93, will beheld at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church with Fr. Francois Sainte- Marie officiating. Interment will follow St. Paul Cemetery.
Visitation will be held at David Funeral Home of Abbeville on Saturday, July 13, 2024 beginning at 8 a.m. until the time of the services with a recitation of the rosary at 9 a.m.
Marion Joseph Bessard, Sr. was born on January 16, 1931 to the late Leslie Bessard and Fannie Reaux Bessard in Abbeville, LA. He peacefully departed this life to his heavenly home surrounded by his family on Thursday, July 4, 2024.
Daddy, Papa, Mr. Marion, Paran, Uncle Marion, and Mr. Bessard was a “Master Plumber for Life” who took pride in owning and operating his own business, Marion Bessard Plumbing Service along with his sons. He proudly served as an usher at St. Theresa Catholic Church. He was a member of St. Paul Chapter #3 Meritorious 4th Degree Knights of Peter Claver and Our Lady of Lourdes Court #77 Knights of Peter Claver where he served for 75 years. He was also a member of Knights of Columbus.
Mourning his passing, yet cherishing the many beautiful memories of his love and devotion are his children, Peggy Bessard Wright of Abbeville, LA; Marion J. Bessard, Jr. and wife, Karla of Dallas, TX; Allen Bessard and wife Elizabeth of Abbeville, LA; Orelia E. Bessard of Abbeville, LA; Anthony Bessard and wife, Jackie of Greensboro, NC; Michael Bessard of Erath, LA; Carl Bessard of Abbeville, LA; Preston Bessard and wife, Ingrid of Raleigh, NC; and Andrea B. Spates and husband Baylan of Abbeville, LA, 25 grandchildren, 47 great grandchildren, 6 great great grandchildren, brother Milton Bessard and wife, Grace of Houston, TX, sister in law Joyce Mouton of Beaumont, TX, godchildren, nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Alma M. Bessard; son Ronald E. Bessard; parents Leslie and Fannie Bessard; brothers Preston Bessard and Claude Bessard; son in law Rev. Michael C. Wright; daughter in law Denise S. Bessard, and 6 sister in laws, and 2 brother in laws.
His message to all was, “Y’all Be Good!”
We love you Daddy!
You may sign the guest register book and express condolences online at www.dvidfuneralhome.org
David Funeral Home of Abbeville, 2600 Charity Street, (337) 893-3777 will be handling the arrangements.

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The car chase ended when the driver lost control and crashed into the front of Cajun Claws Restaurant in Abbeville.

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The car crash caused damage to the inside of Cajun Claws.

Car chase ends with driver crashing into Cajun Claws in Abbeville

Wed, 07/10/2024 - 9:36am
Restaurant was closed at the time of accident

On Sunday night, a high-speed car chase on Charity Street in Abbeville ended with a car crashing into the Cajun Claws Restaurant.
Abbeville Chief of Police Mike Hardy reported that Kevin Collins from Carencro was allegedly caught shoplifting at the Wal-Mart in Abbeville. After being spotted, Collins fled the store, prompting a high-speed pursuit by the police down Charity Street. It is estimated that speeds of more than 90 miles per hour were reached during the chase.
Collins eventually lost control of his vehicle, crashing into the bar area of Cajun Claws Restaurant on Charity Street.
The car crashed through the front of the restaurant and came to a stop in the dining area. The restaurant was closed at that time and was scheduled to reopen the following weekend. Collins was taken by Acadian Ambulance to Abbeville General Hospital due to a knee injury he allegedly sustained. After being released from the hospital, he was arrested and booked into the parish jail on multiple charges.
During the booking, the Abbeville Police learned Collins was wanted on an attempted murder charge in Iberia Parish.
Cajun Claws owners Jodi and Donni Choate were called to their restaurant moments after the crash.
Jodi posted this on her Facebook Page: 
“It seems a high-speed chase ended in our restaurant, but it could have been so much worse if we had patrons in our bar,” she wrote. “We were scheduled to be open next week, so I guess upon further word from the hubs, I will know more. I beg all of you to be kind. We really never know what one is going through, and this too shall pass.”
She thanked the Abbeville Police Department for how they handled the crash.
Collins, as of Tuesday, was still in the Vermilion Parish Correctional Center. 
Cajuns Claws employee C.J. Frederick began a  Go-Fund-Me account to help rebuild the restaurant. Frederick set a goal of $30,000, and thus far, just under $1,000 has been donated. 
Frederick wrote on the GoFundMe Me Page: “They would never ask for help, but it will take a village to assist them in rebuilding what was demolished. Please see Jodi’s take on this tragic event — such a strong woman who has been carrying a heavy load for quite some time. If you can find it in your heart to help lift them, then my job has been done to assist them in the best way I know how. Anything helps! Thank you all in advance. Much love!”

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Jacob Byler

Jacob "Coach" Byler obit

Mon, 07/08/2024 - 9:16am

Jacob "Coach" Byler
July 29, 1940 ~ July 3, 2024

Kaplan—A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Roman Catholic Church honoring the life of Jacob "Coach" Byler, 83, who died Wednesday, July 3, 2024 at Brookdale Assisted Living. He will be laid to rest at Hebert Cemetery with Fr. Mikel Polson officiating the services. Pallbearers will be Britt Byler, Ashton Crochet, Lucus Broussard, Linden Bercegeay III, Tommy Pillette, and Mark Aubrey Cole. Honorary pallbearers will be Kerry Richard, Chad Hargrave, Jimmy Broussard, and Ray Broussard.

Visiting hours will be observed at Vincent Funeral Home in Kaplan, 300 N. Eleazar Ave., on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 from 2:00 PM until 9:00 PM with a rosary being prayed at 6:30 PM; Wednesday, July 10, 2024 from 8:00 AM until the procession departs for church at 10:45 AM.

Coach Byler was a dedicated educator and coach for 43 years and leaves behind a profound legacy of commitment, inspiration, and love. Coach Byler had a tremendous impact on countless students and families through his roles as a teacher and coach, touching lives and shaping futures with his hard work and caring nature.

He began his remarkable career at Saint Paul’s in Covington before returning to the Lafayette area, where he spent 15 influential years at Cathedral Carmel High School. At Cathedral Carmel, he served as an assistant football coach and head track coach before becoming the school's last head football coach. His dedication and leadership were evident in every role he took on.

When Cathedral Carmel High School closed and St. Thomas More opened, Coach Byler became the first head football coach at Saint Thomas More High School, setting the foundation for the school's football program. After four impactful years at STM, he spent the next 21 years at Erath High School, where he became the winningest all-time football coach. His success wasn't limited to football; he was also a highly successful track and field coach, guiding many athletes to reach their full potential.

Even in retirement, Coach Byler's passion for coaching never dimmed. He continued to volunteer at North Vermilion High School, contributing to both the football and track programs, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the development of young athletes.

Coach Byler's career was adorned with numerous individual awards and team accomplishments, reflecting his exceptional coaching abilities and dedication. His impact on multiple communities is a testament to his hardworking and caring nature. He was a coach that players wanted to play for, inspiring countless athletes with his leadership and compassion.

Beyond his professional achievements, Coach Byler was the "head coach" of his own family. He was a beloved father and grandfather, whose love and guidance were felt deeply by his family. He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jacob "Coach" Byler's legacy will continue to inspire future generations. His memory will be cherished by his family, friends, students, and the many communities he served.

He is survived by one son, Thomas Byler (Stacy) of Youngsville; one daughter, Tracy Byler (Ad Himel) of Lafayette; one brother, Patrick Byler (Jane) of New Iberia; and three grandchildren, Grace Crochet (Ashton), Britt Byler, and Lily Byler.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Broussard Byler; his parents, Jules Byler and the former Lelia Conner; and his mother- and father-in-law, Newton and Loris Broussard.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made to the Vermilion Parish Future Educator Scholarship Fund, a newly formed scholarship fund created to honor Coach Byler’s legacy. There will be envelopes available at the funeral home for donations to be made.

All funeral arrangements are being conducted by Vincent Funeral Home of Kaplan, (337) 643-7276. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.vincentfuneralhome.net.

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