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It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mahlan Paul Broussard, 90, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Born in Kaplan, Louisiana, on August 5, 1933, to the late Mayo and Sophie Broussard, Mahlan’s journey through life was marked by dedication, service, and faith.
After years of hard work and dedication to his career, he and his wife made the life-changing decision to retire to Buna, Texas. Their ranch became a labor of love, but it wasn’t all a labor. Their retirement to their ranch was more than a change of scenery; it was a transformation of life, filled with happiness, peace, and a deep bond with nature and the animals they cherished.
A proud graduate of Kaplan High School in 1952, Mahlan bravely served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War, exemplifying courage, and patriotism. After his military service, he embarked on a distinguished 40-year career in the chemical industry, starting at B.F. Goodrich Chemical Plant and later Ameripol Synpol in Port Neches, Texas, where he retired as an operations supervisor. Mahlan’s work ethic and leadership left a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure to work alongside him.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mahlan was a devout follower of the Catholic faith, actively involved in his church communities at St. Elizabeth in Port Neches, Texas after relocating from Louisiana, and later at St. Francis of Assisi in Buna, Texas. His dedication to volunteering and serving his church was a testament to his generous spirit and deep faith.
Mahlan’s legacy is carried on by his beloved wife of 67 years, DeLois Harris Broussard; his devoted sons, David Edward Broussard (Dana Bush and her daughter Brinlee Bush), and Don Eric Broussard (Leslie); his adoring grandchildren, Alexander Broussard (Cecilia) and Allison Broussard; his siblings, John Broussard, Manual Broussard (Barbara), and Martha Bueker (Cord); and a loving circle of nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Gilroy Broussard and Camile Jimmie Broussard.
As we bid farewell to Mahlan, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and deeply loved. His memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him, serving as a beacon of kindness, strength, and faith. His spirit will forever guide us, reminding us of the preciousness of life and the importance of community and faith.
A gathering of Mr. Broussard’s family and friends will begin at 9:00 a.m., at Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland, with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, 2006 Nall Street, Port Neches. His entombment will follow at Oak Bluff Memorial Park, Port Neches.
Rest in peace, Mahlan. Your legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know you.

April 6, 2008 ~ April 25, 2024

COW ISLAND — A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at St. Anne Catholic Church honoring the life of Olivia Nichole LeMaire, 16, who died Thursday, April 25, 2024. She was laid to rest at Abshire Cemetery with Reverend Mark Miley and Deacon Cody Miller officiating the services.  
Olivia was called to her heavenly home when she was 16 years old. After she was diagnosed with infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy (INAD) as a young child, many people followed her life through “Olivia’s Journey.” Much love and concern was shown to her by the community. Olivia’s family has always been grateful for that support.
Olivia was a “Mama’s Girl.” She and her mother, Leslie, had a close and loving bond. Olivia was very attached to her mother and loved having Leslie hold her, care for her, and soothe her. Olivia was often surrounded by her soft dolls, stuffed animals, and comfy pillows. She liked pretty dresses and bows in her beautiful dark hair, and she liked being pampered with manis, pedis, and facials. On special occasions, she would wear soft makeup and dainty jewelry. Olivia’s face would light up because she knew she looked pretty.
Olivia was also a “Daddy’s Girl.” She would perk up when she heard her Daddy’s voice. They had a special bond, and when he played his guitar and sang for her, Olivia would become joyful with a smile on her face.
When Olivia was younger, she could maneuver herself in her wheelchair. She was a curious little girl and could wheel around to dig in cabinets, drawers, purses, and bags making a huge mess. She enjoyed her princess wand, purses, wallets, baby dolls, and she loved to pretend to cook. Music and Disney princess movies were a huge part of her day as she “sang along.”
As Olivia grew older and her disease progressed, her physical and sensory functions declined. However, she was still aware of many things. She liked her dog and farm animals, especially chicks. She loved the outdoors, using all her senses to take in the beauty of nature.
Hearing men’s voices usually made her smile. She would also smile if someone was being naughty or silly. She was canaille (kah-NIGH) with a silly, childlike mind.
Olivia’s mother shared her faith with her daughter by teaching her about Jesus and heaven. Olivia’s face lit up when someone talked about Jesus or read from the Bible. Our Blessed Mother Mary has played a huge role in carrying the family through “Olivia’s Journey.”
Many people loved and cared for Olivia throughout her life: parents, grandparents, brother, aunts, uncles, cousins, stepfather, caretakers, nurses, religious individuals, extended family, and friends. 
Olivia’s family would like to thank ALL who have followed, prayed, and helped in her care throughout her life, with special thanks to Heart of Hospice, Complete Home Health, L and D Services, and Medical Resources. 
She is survived by her parents, Leslie Hebert (John) of Cow Island, and Mike LeMaire of Kaplan; her sibling, Ethan LeMaire of Kaplan; her maternal grandparents, Bonita Hopkins (Ty) of Kaplan, and Phillip "Butch" Vincent (Melissa) and their son, Connor of Conroe, TX; her paternal grandparents, Wilson "Jr." LeMaire (Linda) of Kaplan; her step-grandparents, Pat Hebert (Melissa) of Cow Island; her aunts, Kayla Fontenot (Jeremy) of Lafayette, Bonnie Schoeffler (Ted) of Lafayette, Donna Broussard (Benji) of Kaplan, and Monica Bourque (Jed) of Youngsville; and her cousins, Mitchell, Cody, Hattie, Grant, Hannah, Noah, John Luke, Mason, Hudson, Camille, Drew, and Blake.
All funeral arrangements were conducted by Vincent Funeral Home of Kaplan, (337) 643-7276. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.vincentfuneralhome.net.