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Shawnee LeBlanc Detraz

Thu, 02/15/2024 - 10:08am

March 1, 1950 ~ February 13, 2024

ABBEVILLE — A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, February 16, 2024 at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church honoring the life of Shawnee LeBlanc Detraz, 73, who died Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at her residence. She will be laid to rest at St. Paul Cemetery with Father Louis Richard officiating the services.
Shawnee was well-known and beloved mother, grandmother, wife, and friend. She never met a stranger and if she did, they soon became family. She was known by some as Shawnee, but most famously called “Moomoo”. A name given to her by her grandkids but adopted by those who soon became family. From the bingo halls to the crawfish fields, there was nothing she cherished more than spending time with her family and friends. Her kids and grandkids were at the center of her heart and could always count on her to be the loudest and proudest voice in the crowd. Her Cajun cooking, two step dancing, and crawfish red nails is how she will be remembered. She has left an incredible mark on our lives, teaching us the importance of love, laughter, and cherishing every moment as if it were our last. “Moomoo” is not just a name she adopted; it is a constant reminder to live life to the fullest.
She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Detraz Comeaux and her husband, Joey of Abbeville; sister, Sharyon LeBlanc Boudreaux and her husband, Bubba of Lafayette; six grandchildren, Dilan Comeaux, Paige Comeaux, Madison Hebert, Jennah Detraz, Amelia Detraz, and Reid Hamilton; and one great grandson, Clayton Comeaux.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael "Big Mike" Detraz; son, Michael "Lil Mike" Detraz Jr.; parents, Clifford “T-Cliff” LeBlanc and former Thelma Moore; and brother, Mark LeBlanc.
The family requests that visiting hours be observed at Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville, 209 S. St. Charles St., on Friday, February 16, 2024 from 9 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. when the procession will depart for the church.
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.

Arthur Chris Landry takes a photo with Vermilion Catholic students.

Arthur Chris Landry explains to Vermilion Catholic students about his book that he wrote.

World Read Aloud Day: Local author captivates Vermilion Catholic readers

Thu, 02/15/2024 - 9:51am

In honor of World Read Aloud Day 2024, Christopher and Jade Landry inspired students and teachers with a fun-filled presentation at Vermilion Catholic, a legacy of Mount Carmel, on Tues., Feb. 7.
“Mr. Chris Landry shared his passion for Cajun culture, Louisiana wildlife, and storytelling with our students,” said Librarian Nanette Cope. “They were captivated by his presentation and are excited to continue reading his books.”
C. P. Landry is the author of the celebrated Cajun Kids Adventures series, launched in July 2022. Landry, his wife Jade, and their daughter Camryn, operate their own Excaliber Publishing, in Maurice.
“I am a lifelong resident of South Louisiana and a descendant of the original French Acadians now known as Cajuns,” the author explained. “My wife shares a similar heritage as the fifth generation to hunt, trap, and fish the marshes of the
Atchafalaya River Basin. The Cajun Kids Adventures series is loosely based on the experiences of our own five children’s unique upbringing.”
During the Author Visit presentation, C.P. Landry read from the fifth volume, titled The Watchmen, not yet released. Although the Landrys target the book series for ages 8-14, the adventures of the five sibling characters are interesting to many young-at-heart readers of all ages.
“The series has won four different awards to date, with multiple category wins within these volumes,” explained Jade Landry. She and Camryn create many of the books’ illustrations. The cover artist is Steve Shamburger of Baton Rouge.
The first volume, Mystery at Indian Point, won the Silver Medal - Mom’s Choice Award for Family Friendly Media.
The book was also a Finalist in the American Writing Awards - Children Book International for these categories: Children’s Fiction, Children’s Adventure, and Children’s Chapter Series.
The Vol. 3, The Cup, The Cap, and the Ring-Tailed Monkey, and Vol. 4, Storm Clouds have won the Finalist Award with the American Writing Awards for Children’s Fiction.
“There were thousands of entries, one winner and 11 finalists, and our two books took up two of the eleven Finalist Awards,” Jade Landry continued. “If you are wondering why Vol. 2 does not have any awards, it is because we released it in November and missed entry timelines.”
The Landrys also have a YouTube channel featuring several educational videos and “Fun Facts with Sir Isaac Nutria.” Look for them on their Facebook page, too.
The Cajun Kids Adventures books are available to order at www.cajunkids.com and Amazon. Many gift shops in the Acadiana area carry the series and gift items.
Schools interested in scheduling an Author Visit for their students are encouraged to contact Chris and Jade Landry at www.cajunkids.com or info@cajunkids.com.

This is one of the two buildings at the rice mill that the tin is being removed.

No plans to tear down rice mill in Abbeville says owner

Thu, 02/15/2024 - 9:44am

Contractors only removing old tin

Abbeville residents have been expressing their concerns lately about the old Riviana Rice Mill.
The mill has been standing for over a century and contractors have been seen removing tin from the main buildings next to the railroad track.
This has left some residents worried that once the tin is removed, the entire structure will be torn down, leaving Abbeville with a large cement slab. One resident even compared the situation to what happened to the Palms Hospital in Abbeville - despite its historical significance, the hospital was demolished for a new, larger one.
However, the new owner of the rice mill, Earl Landry, who is an Erath resident, has assured Vermilion Parish residents that there is nothing to fear.
He explains that no part of the mill will be demolished. In fact, the contractors are only removing the corroded tin material which is in poor condition and needs to be replaced. Landry says that the removal process will take around 45 days.
Once the removal process is complete, the contractors will start repairing the brick building along the Vermilion River.
Part of the roof has caved in and needs to be fixed. Landry estimates that the entire process of repairing the rice mill buildings will take at least two years.
During this time, he will apply for grants to help transform the old rice mill into something new, although he has not yet disclosed what that will be.
Landry purchased the old rice mill from Riviana in December of 2023 and renamed it “The Rice Quarter, LLC.”

Members of the Erath High Extreme Dance Team returned home after a Runner-Up finish at the National Dance Team Championships in Orlando, Fla.

Team members include: Front (L-R)- Regan Granger, Ava LeBlanc, Ella Caillouet, MaryGrace White; Middle Row (L-R)- Ellie Mire, Madeline Zegura, Izzy Bernard, Claire Pigott, Kenzie Segura; Back Row (L-R)- Theresa Touchet, sponsor Libby DesOrmeaux,
Abigail Theall, Courtney Quibodeaux, Ava Hunt, Libby DesOrmeaux, Ella Thibodeaux,
Christen Primeaux, coach; Not Pictured- Marlee Caldwell and Brylee Pogue

Erath High welcomes back Extreme Dance Team

Mon, 02/12/2024 - 8:44am

Finished as National Runner Up

Erath High school welcomed back their Extreme Dance Team today after an exciting trip to Orlando, Florida for the Universal Dance Association (UDA) National Dance Team Championships.
The competition dance squad made school history earning recognition as National Runner Up in the UDA Division II Medium Varsity Game Day Routine competition.
Coach Christen Landry Primeaux and Sponsor Theresa Comeaux Touchet led the team in this historic feat, along with Extreme Alum Chloe Landry and Choreographer Jesse Hernandez.

Teen booked in connection to shooting death in Abbeville

Fri, 02/09/2024 - 11:13am

Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s deputies arrest 16-year-old Thursday on first-degree murder, armed robbery charges

An Abbeville teen has been arrested in connection to the shooting death of a New Iberia man Thursday night.
According to Vermilion Parish Sheriff Mike Couvillon, his office received a telephone call about a possible shooting on Feb. 8, at approximately 8:44 p.m.
The caller advised that the shooting allegedly occurred on Robie Circle in Abbeville, and that a vehicle departed the area, possibly with a victim. Deputies were advised that the vehicle stopped at the Circle K convenience store on the La. Hwy. 14 By-pass in Abbeville, where an Acadian Ambulance unit was located. Medical personnel immediately began to render medical aid and transported a male victim to a local hospital, where he succumbed to gunshot wounds.
The victim has been identified as 19-year-old Dylan Michael Walker of New Iberia, LA.
Sheriff Couvillon advised that detectives were called out to investigate, and as a result, a 16-year-old juvenile male from Abbeville has been arrested and charged with one count of First Degree Murder and one count of Armed Robbery.
Sheriff Couvillon also added that in December of 2023, the same juvenile pled guilty to six charges in relation to numerous Simple Burglaries, Felony Thefts and Illegal Possession of Stolen Goods complaints, to include stolen firearms, and was presently wearing an ankle monitor in lieu of detention.
The investigation is on-going, and more arrests are possible.

Dorothy Broussard Granger

Fri, 02/09/2024 - 9:41am

October 2, 1940 - February 8, 2024

MAURICE – Funeral service will be held at St. Alphonse Catholic Church in Maurice Saturday February 10, 2024, at 1:00 PM for Dorothy Broussard Granger, 83. Reverend Paul Bienvenu Pastor of St. Alphonse officiating.
Visitation will be held Saturday February 10, 2024, at David Funeral Home, from 9:00 AM until time of services. Entombment will follow in St. Alphonse Catholic Mausoleum.
Born October 2,1940, Dorothy grew up in Maurice and graduated from Milton High School in 1958. Demonstrating a passion for knowledge, she furthered her education at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, earning a 2-year degree in secretarial science.
Throughout her career, Dorothy showcased her versatile skills in various professional roles. She began as a librarian's assistant, where her love for literature and learning flourished. Later, she served as a secretary in the counselor's office, providing support and guidance to students navigating their educational journeys.
Dorothy's expertise extended to the field of bookkeeping, where she contributed her talents to Comeaux High School. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to accuracy made her an invaluable asset in the realm of education.
In a remarkable partnership with her husband, Dorothy ventured into the realm of entrepreneurship. Together, they became proud owners of an insurance company, where Dorothy assumed the role of secretary and co-owner. Their joint venture not only demonstrated their commitment to each other but also showcased Dorothy's business acumen and collaborative spirit.
After years of devoted service, Dorothy made the decision to retire in 1999. Her impact on the lives she touched during her professional journey remains evident, and her contributions to education and business will be remembered by those who had the privilege of working alongside her.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dorothy found true joy in the company of her family and friends. Her retirement years were filled with cherished moments spent with loved ones, creating lasting memories that will be treasured for generations to come.
Survivors include her husband of 63 years David L. Granger; her two sons Chuck and his wife Lynne Stelly Granger of Opelousas, Kevin and his wife Sharon Ledet Granger of Maurice, and her daughter in law Laura Dartez Granger of Maurice; ten grandchildren, and sixteen great grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings John Presley and his wife Joyce Bourque Broussard of Maurice, Donna and her husband Terry Trahan of Maurice.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her son Todd Granger, and her parents Jean Issac and Emily Broussard Broussard.
Serving as pallbearers will be Chuck Granger, Kevin Granger, Garrett Granger, Alex Granger, Bobby Granger, Donald Granger, and John Presley Broussard.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Randall Meaux, Johnathan Caffey, Chip Duhon, Josh Howard, Ben Fontenot, Michael Ramirez, Terry Trahan, Jeremy Trahan, and Karl Broussard.
David Funeral Home 2600 Charity St. Abbeville 337-893-3777 is in charge of arrangements.

Stella Campbell Verett

Thu, 02/08/2024 - 10:52am

Stella Campbell Verett, a native of Abbeville, Louisiana was born February 14, 1944 to Mr. Julius (Buddy) Campbell & his dear wife Nita Mouton Campbell. Stella fell asleep in death at Abbeville General Hospital on January 23, 2024. A life long resident of Abbeville, she will be missed and her legacy cherished by all who loved her.
Stella married Alton Joseph Verett, Sr and became parents to four children; one daughter Marquel Verett, and three sons Carol Verett, Alton Joseph Verett Jr & Zachary Verett.
Stella was preceded in death by her dear parents; Mr. Julius (Buddy) Campbell & Mrs. Nita Mouton Campbell, her loving husband Alton Joseph Verett Sr., her firstborn Marquel, son Carol Verett and 12 brothers: Clifton Campbell Sr., Aros Campbell, Chester Campbell, Robert Campbell, Arthur Campbell, Larry Campbell, Leroy Campbell, Eugene Campbell, Larry Smith and six Sisters: Lillian C. Williams, Lillie Mae Lewis, Goldie Campbell, Margaret (McGee) Washington, Mary Alice Thomas & Charlene Honeycutt.
Stella leaves to cherish her memories two sons, Alton Joseph Verett Jr. and Zachary Verett; one brother Mr. Donald Campbell (Shirley); one sister Marlene (Mat) Nunez & 11 grandchildren: Jaleesa Verett, Nicole Verett, Tiffany Verett, Brandyn Verett, Alton Verett III, Detallion Verett, Zachary Verett Jr., Devante Verett, Shayla Verett, Danasia Verett, Aaliyah and 22 great grandchildren, a host of nieces & nephews, family and friends.
Stella achieved many accomplishments in her life; a devoted wife & mother, a hard working woman who touched so many lives. Some families with whom she was employed said this of her: “No one could ever replace Stella”. Another accomplishment she achieved; she attended Abbeville Beauty Academy and became a Cosmetologist. She worked for J.C. Penny Hair Salon in Lafayette for many years as an accomplished Hair Stylist.
Stella would tell you of her greatest ultimate accomplishment is when she began a careful study of the Bible in her home with her husband Joe. Their studies of the Scriptures transformed their lives; they became baptized as Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1973. She used every opportunity to tell others about the Mighty God Jehovah and the wonderful promises recorded in his written word the Holy Bible. She remained faithful to Jehovah until her death. For 51 years she continued to teach others about the Good News of God’s Kingdom which Jesus taught his faithful followers to pray for in the Lord’s Prayer at Matthew 6:9,10.
Funeral services will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 9928 US Hwy. 167. Viewing will begin at 11:00am - 12:00pm. Services will begin at 12 noon. Flowers can be sent to the Kingdom Hall starting at 10:00am.
Special thanks and appreciation goes out to the Rodney Vicks Affordable & Associates, the Hills Family of Amite, Louisiana who were in charge of Stella Verett’s funeral arrangements.
Special thanks also to her nieces Beverly Hill of Amite, LA., Christine Broussard of Abbeville, Beulah Batiste of Abbeville, and Betty Thomas of Abbeville, for the TLC you gave to your Aunt Stella during her illness and after. You will be remembered!!

Agents arrest Levy on multiple drug charges in Vermilion Parish

Wed, 02/07/2024 - 2:09pm

Task Force conducts lengthy investigation into drug trafficking organization

According to Vermilion Parish Sheriff Mike Couvillon, the Vermilion Municipal and Sheriff’s Narcotics Task Force made the following arrests for narcotics related offenses within the parish.
On Jan. 26, agents concluded a lengthy investigation into a Drug Trafficking Organization, which lead to the arrest of Terrance Levy.
Agents executed a search warrant at 2417 Jacqulyn St. and Levy was taken into custody on Felony narcotics warrants. A search of the residence was conducted and evidence of narcotics distribution, including scales and packaging were located. Agents seized various items of Drug Paraphernalia as well as a large amount of U.S. Currency. Levy was arrested on his active warrants and charged with the following offenses.
• Criminal Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II, (Methamphetamine)
• Criminal Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I, (Marijuana)
• Criminal Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule I, (MDMA)
• Criminal Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule IV, (Alprazolam)
• Criminal Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II, (Cocaine)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
• Transactions involving Drug Proceeds
Sheriff Couvillon would like to thank the Mayors, and their council, of Abbeville, Gueydan, and Erath, along with their Chiefs of Police, for their support of the Vermilion Municipal and Sheriff’s Narcotics Task Force. Sheriff Couvillon also applauds the concerned citizens of Vermilion Parish for their awareness and assistance in helping the Task Force in fighting the war on illegal drugs. He encourages all citizens with information in regards to illegal drug activities to contact the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office or the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit at 337-740-4501 or E-mail the Task Force anonymously at taskforce@vpso.net and your e-mail will be held in the “strictest of confidence” and replied to in a very timely manner. Sheriff Couvillon and the agents of the Task Force will continue their fight against narcotics dealers and narcotics traffickers inside of Vermilion Parish and will continue to network with other agencies in this fight. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty.
More information on reporting drug activities can be seen on our Web Site at www.vpso.net. Click on Narcotics and fill out the TURN IN A PUSHER information.

Members of the North Vermilion Dreams Dance Team pictured with White Championship Jackets; Bottom: Jaylen LeBlanc (Manager), Kylie Istre, Marlee Nugier, Gabby Leonard, Gracyn Meaux; Top: Coti Alpha, Julie Romero, Meg Touchet, Ashley Guidry, Anne Istre, Camille Davidson, and Jaycie Hardy; Not Pictured: Coaches, Vangie Davidson and Shamayne Istre

North Vermilion Dreams coaches Vangie Davidson and Shamayne Istre said of the team reaching the level of National Champions, “This is our Everest.

The 2024 version of the North Vermilion Dreams took the program to new heights in its 10 year.

National Champions: North Vermilion Dance Team makes history

Wed, 02/07/2024 - 2:01pm

The North Vermilion Dreams’ Dance Team made Vermilion Parish history on Saturday by winning the National Dance Team Championship in Orlando, Fla.
The NV Dance Team won the Division II Small Varisy Dame Day National Championship. The Dreams competed in Small Varsity Game Day & Hip Hop this past weekend at the UDA National Dance Team Championship held in Orlando, FL at the ESPN Wide World of Sports.
Also, the Erath High Extreme Dance Team took home second place in the Medium Varsity Division category.
NV Dance team has been competing on the National Level for 10 years. Prior to this year, a fifth in Game Day and eighth in Hip Hop served as the highest finishes for the Dreams.
Vangie Davidson is the coach of the NV Dance.
“It was a Dream come true!” Davidson exclaimed after the win. “Such an emotional rollercoaster knowing that years of hard work really can pay off and that the hometown girls from the town of Maurice made it to the top!”
North Vermilion had been trending upwards during its recent runs at a national title, so the title shouldn’t come as a complete surprise.
“NV has been on the rise the last 2 years,” Davidson said, “but I think we did surprise our competitors.”
Whatever the outcome, Davidson knew the Dreams gave a top-flight performance.
“They executed their routine at a personal best,” Davidson said, “and at that point it was all in the judge’s hands.”
This win only solidifies what was already an outstanding group, as far as the coaching staff is concerned.
“The Dreams have proven how special they are year after year,” Davidson said. “They rise to expectation because they know the importance of accountability. They exhibit self-discipline and sacrifice. They have a true passion for their craft and want to make their community and school proud. They face many obstacles preparing for competition. They rarely have the space needed to practice efficiently but will always make the best out of it, and have proven where there’s a will, there’s a way. When something stands in their way, they push through because they know their value and what they are capable of. They are also very involved in school activities and maintain a team GPA of 3.7 or above.
“They are the definition of a champion in many ways!”

Marie T. Doucet

Tue, 02/06/2024 - 9:40am

MAURICE, La — Marie Annette Trahan Doucet, 82, was born on November 11, 1941. She passed away peacefully at home on February 3, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Annette is survived by her husband of 62 years, James Roger Doucet, of Maurice, LA, her daughters, Monique D. Lafleur and husband, Matt, of Madison, MS, and Lisa D. Warren and husband, Ben, of Shreveport, LA and grandsons, Joshua G. Warren and fiancé, Rachael Harrell, of Denver, CO, Jacob G. Warren and wife, Connor, of Austin, TX, Benjamin R. Warren of Austin, TX, and Nicolas C. Lafleur of New Orleans, LA. She is also survived by her brother, Edward V. Trahan, Jr. of Hammond, LA, her sister, Margaret T. Straka, of Baton Rouge, LA, and sister-in-law Norma D. Daigle and husband, Johnny. She was predeceased by her parents, E. Voorhies Trahan, Sr. and Octavine T. Trahan and her baby brother, Paul Ronald Trahan, all of Maurice, LA.
Annette graduated Valedictorian from Milton High School in 1958. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics, Foodservice Systems Management, with High Distinction from the University of Southwestern Louisiana in 1961. She earned a Master of Science in Institutional Management from Louisiana Tech University in Ruston, LA in 1976 with a 4.0 GPA. She was the Director of Food Services at Abbeville General Hospital from 1961 until her retirement in 2013. In addition to serving as the Director of Food Services at Abbeville General Hospital, Annette was an Instructor in Louisiana Tech University’s Coordinated Program in Dietetics from 1980 through 1985. From an early age, Annette strived to do her best in everything. She excelled at all levels of her education and career but her family was always the most important thing to her. She was a loving wife and true partner in life to Roger for over 62 years and a wonderful role model for her daughters. Annette was a smart, strong, accomplished, selfless, and incredibly principled woman. Her greatest joy in life came from spending time with her four grandsons. Their beloved “MaMa” was their biggest, and at times, their loudest fan. She made sure she was there for every birthday party or school celebration. She was also there to cheer them on at martial arts tournaments and countless baseball, football, basketball, and soccer games. We all feel incredibly lucky to have had her in our lives and we will miss her more than we can imagine. Hers is the voice in our heads that encourages us to be the best versions of ourselves.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Acadiana, 2600 Johnston St, Suite 200, Lafayette, LA 70503 or hospiceacadiana.com/donate.
Visitation will be held at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Maurice, LA on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 from 10:00 am until 11:15 am, immediately followed by a Catholic Mass and Entombment. Serving as Pallbearers will be Matt Lafleur, Ben Warren, Joshua Warren, Jacob Warren, Benjamin Warren, and Nicolas Lafleur. Arrangements are being handled by Guidry Funeral Home, Inc.; 219 N. Broadway, Church Point, LA.

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Shawnee LeBlanc Detraz

World Read Aloud Day: Local author captivates Vermilion Catholic readers

No plans to tear down rice mill in Abbeville says owner

Erath High welcomes back Extreme Dance Team

Teen booked in connection to shooting death in Abbeville

Dorothy Broussard Granger

Stella Campbell Verett

Agents arrest Levy on multiple drug charges in Vermilion Parish

National Champions: North Vermilion Dance Team makes history

Marie T. Doucet

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