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Frank Paul Monceaux

Fri, 01/17/2025 - 10:29am

Frank Paul Monceaux was born on January 12, 1951, in Gueydan, LA, and peacefully passed away on January 15, 2025, at his residence with his devoted family by his side. While his ailment may have taken him from this earth too soon, it never robbed him of his love for his family.
Frank was a third-generation rice and soybean farmer, and, later in his career, he also farmed crawfish. For a while, he prepared meals for local hunting camps and fed hunters their bounty with flavor through his favorite recipes. Once he “retired”, he hauled crops for Mr. Trevor Hair and shared his knowledge with younger farmers so that they, too, may carry forth the livelihood with their families.
We choose to remember him for the hard work ethic he bestowed on each of us. The kindness and compassion he showed to us and the tough love he gave when we needed it most. He showed us how to relax after the work is done and have fun and love through it all.
For this one farmer the worries are over and struggles enough. It is time to reap the fields of golden wheat and bask in the Glory of The Son. Your work here is done - park the truck, put the tractor in the shed, put away your tools and rest in peace. We will close the gate for you, Daddy.
Frank leaves behind his wife of 53 years, Debra Monceaux and his four children, Kayla (Bobby) Wood, Julie (Steve) Monceaux, Jason (Kim) Monceaux and Kevin Monceaux. He loved his nine grandchildren, Austin (Alyssa) Wood, Ashley Wood, Brianne (John) Compton, Ariel Guidry, Alexis Monceaux, Aaron Monceaux, Matthew Verdine, Lars Monceaux and Londin Monceaux. He also was blessed with thirteen great grandchildren.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and LouDella Monceaux; his paternal grandparents, Fred and Evelyn Monceaux; maternal grandparents, Joseph and Ada Vincent. Also, loyally awaiting Frank, with his tail wagging in anticipation, is Keystone, his beloved Yorkie and the favorite child.
Visitation will take place on Friday, January 17, 2025, starting at 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at Miguez Funeral Home in Lake Arthur. It will resume on Saturday at 8:00 a.m. until the time of the service.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. with Pastor Troy Duhon officiating, in the Miguez Funeral Home Chapel.
Burial will take place in the Gueydan Cemetery, under the direction of Miguez Funeral Home.
Carrying him to his final resting place are Brandon Badon, Luke Monceaux, Lance Monceaux, Joshua Vincent, Kaden Guidry and Regan Istre. Honorary pall bearers will be Aaron Monceaux and Lars Monceaux.

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CHESTER J. HENRY

Wed, 01/15/2025 - 10:51am

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Milton, for Chester J. Henry, age 79, who passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center. The family requests that visitation be observed at Martin & Castille's SOUTHSIDE location on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m., and continued on Friday, January 17, 2025 from 8 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. at the time of services. A recitation of the Holy Rosary will be led by Linda Dartez on Thursday evening at 7 p.m. in the funeral home.
Interment will be held in St. Joseph Cemetery.
Reverend William Schambough will serve as the Celebrant of the Funeral Mass and officiate the services.
Chester J. Henry, known affectionately as Ches to his friends and family, passed away suddenly on January 14, 2025, in Lafayette, LA, due to complications with leukemia. Born on December 5, 1945 in Kaplan, LA, Ches lived a life marked by enthusiasm, love and a steadfast optimism that touched the hearts of all who knew him.
Ches was a man of admirable character and was loved deeply by his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Rosa Bernard Henry, with whom he shared a beautiful and unwavering partnership of 18 years. He was a cherished father to his children: Chad Henry (Stacy), Faithann Bran (Luis), Clifton Henry (Shana), Jonathan (JP) Henry (Tori), Hope McClelland (Joe), and Jade (Jess). His legacy continues through his sixteen grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable joy and pride. He was the beloved brother of Gloria Champine (Roger), Lud Henry (Christine), Belinda Boudreaux (Ashley), and Ernie Henry (Kim).
Awaiting Chester when he arrived home with his Heavenly father was his parents, Ludness and Theresa Dubois Henry, his sister, Brenda Henry, and his three infant brothers.
After attending the University of Southwestern Louisiana (USL) on a football scholarship in 1964, Ches built a reputable career as a welder at Cameron Ironworks, dedicating 30 years of service. His commitment and work ethic were as strong as the bonds he forged with his colleagues and within his community. Ches's passion for sports was a defining aspect of his life. A true sports fanatic, he reveled in the excitement of the game, whether it was cheering for his beloved New Orleans Saints, LSU Tigers, UL Ragin' Cajuns, Nicholls Colonels, or his Berwick High School Panthers, however Sunday game day was his favorite and his house was filled with cheering and excitement. His pride swelled when watching his great-grandson Jayden play football for Nicholls University. Ches found great joy in supporting his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews in all their athletic endeavors.
Those who knew Ches would describe him as spirited, loving, and unwaveringly optimistic. His presence was a source of energy and encouragement, and he had a unique ability to uplift others with his infectious spirit. Ches lived by the words of Helen Keller: "Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence." This quote perfectly encapsulates the ethos by which Ches led his life-a life characterized by hope and the confidence to face challenges with a positive outlook.
Ches's passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved him, but his spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. His was a life lived to the fullest, rich in experiences, and abundant in love. We take comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched.
We will gather to celebrate Ches's life and honor his memory. His story will be told with smiles and laughter, as he would have wished, reflecting on the joy and happiness he brought to us all. Chester J. Henry's life was a testament to the power of positivity and the enduring strength of family and community. He will be deeply missed, but his light will continue to shine in the memories we hold dear.
"When we get to the end of our lives together, the house we had, the cars we drove, the things we had won't matter. What will matter, is that I had you and you had me."
Pallbearers will be Logan Bran, Parker Bran, Brennon Henry, Tahner Raphael, Jayden Milton and Ryder McClelland.
We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Henry family by visiting "Share a Memory" on Chester's online obituary and tribute wall at www.mourning.com.
Martin & Castille - SOUTHSIDE, 600 E. Farrel Road, Lafayette, Louisiana 70508, 337-984-2811.

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Luke Hebert holds up the LSU Band Outstanding New Member Award he recently won.

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Luke Hebert was shown on the big screen during the Texas Bowl that featured LSU against Baylor.

Hebert has great first semester at LSU

Tue, 01/14/2025 - 12:49pm

Luke Hebert had a great first semester at LSU.
Hebert, who graduated from Erath High in 2024 and played in the band, kicked off his first semester this past August by earning a spot in The Golden Band from Tigerland. He plays the French Horn and the Mellophone.
Then, during the semester, he was named the “Man of the Year” for the Phi Mu sorority because of an individual fundraiser he participated in to raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in Baton Rouge.
He wrapped up his hectic first semester with an impressive 3.95 GPA as a music education major.
However, while getting the Man of the Year Award, being a member of the LSU Band, and still finishing with a 3.95 GPA were all great, one thing that happened at the end of the semester trumped everything.
The Golden Band from Tigerland, consisting of 323 members, recently held a banquet where Hebert was awarded the 2024 Rhonda G. McGrew Outstanding New Member award, given to the top newcomer in the LSU Band.
“I was shocked when I heard my name,” said Hebert about winning the award. “When he introduced the award and started talking about the person who would get it, he started saying good things such as this person is positive and extremely funny. He also said this person made mistakes but recovered tremendously.”
His name will be added to a large plaque at LSU, which will be a collection of previous Outstanding New Member award winners.
It is no accident that Hebert won the award because he puts a lot of time and effort into perfecting his craft and has been trying to improve it since falling in love with music at Dozier Elementary School. He credits his passion for music to former Dozier music education teacher Kylie Griffin.
“She was my biggest inspiration,” he said. “She inspired me because of her willingness to teach.
“At Dozier, she got me to conduct the class in the fifth grade. I loved it so much. She always stuck with me like that. Kylie is why I selected the French Horn; she played the same instrument.”
Griffin and Hebert are still buddies today for a few reasons. Griffin isn’t at Dozier since she teaches LSU music classes this semester. Plus, Hebert is really close friends with Gracie Griffin, who graduated from EHS, is part of the LSU Band, and is a music major.
Hebert is leaving this weekend to begin his second semester at LSU. How is he going to top his first semester?
For starters, he is a member of the LSU Bengal Brass Band, which plays at basketball games, volleyball matches, and gymnastic meets.
Then, in February, the LSU Band recently learned they will be participating in the parade for the Super Bowl, which is being held in New Orleans.
“My first year at LSU, I loved it,” said Hebert. “I loved being in the Tiger band because I made so many new friends in the band and not in the band.”
Hebert is the son of Matt and Ellen Hebert. His grandparents are Tommy, Rachel Picard, Cheryl, Julian Hinckley, and Marcus Hebert.
“I speak for everyone in the family; we are extremely proud of him,” said Rachel. We witnessed countless hours of his daily practices, and his hard work and extreme dedication to his passion make the entire family proud.”

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Larry George Dugas, Jr. “Coach Dugas”

Tue, 01/14/2025 - 9:51am

March 23, 1931 ~ January 11, 2025

ABBEVILLE – A Mass of Christian Burial officiated by Reverend François Sainte-Marie, will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Catholic Church, honoring the life of Larry George Dugas, Jr., 93, who passed away on January 11, 2025, at his home surrounded by loved ones.
For 40 years, Coach Dugas dedicated himself to the Vermilion Parish School System, coaching, teaching, and counseling the students he served. Coach never forgot a face, often having a story or anecdote about students new and old. His quiet manner and down-to-earth advice served him well, and will forever live on in the memory of his students and his family. Coach’s heartfelt devotion was and forever will be as a member of the “Big Blue Nation”. He truly loved his time at Erath High School and strongly believed that ”It’s a great day to be a Bobcat”. Coach started his long career as a teacher and coach at Mt. Carmel from 1956 to 1963. He then worked as a teacher and coach at Kaplan High School from 1963 to 1965, a teacher and coach at Erath High School from 1965 to 1968, and finally, as a teacher and guidance counselor at Erath High School from 1968 to 1996, Coach further served by teaching Adult Education for 21 years at Erath High School, and working as a guidance counselor for the Vermilion Parish Alternative Program. Larry served as past President of the St. Theresa of the Child Jesus Catholic Church Council and as past president of the Vermilion Catholic High School board. He was a proud United States Armed Forces member from 1950 to 1954 and a combat veteran of the Korean Conflict from 1952 to 1953. He is a lifetime member of the Louisiana High School Coaches Association and was inducted into the Erath High School Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999.
Larry was a devoted husband to Flaudry, his wife of 66 years. Looking at the two of them was to see the complete definition of love, honor, and cherish. He was also the best father and grandfather to his children and grandchildren, whom he adored.
A visitation will take place at Vincent Funeral Home – Abbeville on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m.; Marine Corps League Ceremony at 6:30 p.m.; a rosary being prayed at 7 p.m., and will continue on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 8 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. when the procession will depart for the church. The burial will take place at St. Paul Cemetery in Abbeville.
Larry is survived by his wife, Flaudry Prejean Dugas; daughter, Laurie Dugas Bush (Rodney); daughter-in-law, Trena Touchet; four grandchildren, Shawn G. Dugas, Danielle Dugas Breaux (Scott), Michael R. Bush, and Cameron G. Bush; and one great-grandchild, Ian G. Dugas.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Larry G. Dugas, Sr. and Vivian Thibodaux Dugas of Napoleonville; sister, Peggy Dugas Danos of Cut Off; son, Neil Jude Dugas; and great-grandchildren, Gabriel Anthony Breaux and Ella Elizabeth Breaux.
Serving as pallbearers will be Doug Danos, Joey Prejean, Michael Danos, Rodney Bush, Scott Breaux, Shawn Dugas, Michael Bush, and Cameron Bush. Honorary pallbearers will be Clyde Prejean, Robbie Danos, Bryan Mayberry, John Prejean, Michael Prejean, Russell Prejean, Dennis Prejean, Richard Prejean, Saul Prejean, Danny Broussard, Elwood Dupuy, Clarence Moss, and Kirk Vice.
The family would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to Lamm Hospice for their unwavering care and compassion.
All funeral arrangements are being conducted by Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville (337) 893-4661.

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Burdiel Menard

Mon, 01/13/2025 - 2:30pm

January 19, 1938 ~ January 5, 2025

ABBEVILLE — A Graveside Service was held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at St. Paul Cemetery honoring the life of Burdiel Hebert Menard, 86, who passed away on January 5, 2025 at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center. Deacon William Vincent will officiated the services. Burial followed at St. Paul Cemetery.
She is survived by her daughters, Donna T. Harrington (Tab) and Sonnia T. Camacho (Vince); six grandchildren, Ryan Hargrave, Mandy Trahan, Tiffany Trahan and Tannon Trahan, Tabitha H. Blanco and Jace Camacho; several great-grandchildren; and brother, Pervis Hebert.
She is preceded in death by her husband, J.D. Menard; parents, Fernand Hebert and the former Etta Perry; son, Darrell J. Trahan; sister, Amy Marie Hebert; and brothers, Fernand Hebert, William Hebert, Preston Hebert, Mickey Hebert, and Andrew Hebert.
All funeral arrangements were conducted by Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville (337) 893-4661.

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The Café on State is located at 106 S. State St. in Abbeville. On Wednesday, Jan. 15, it will be the location for the two public meetings regarding absenteeism in Abbeville schools.

Absenteeism problem in Abbeville schools

Mon, 01/13/2025 - 2:29pm
Two public meetings to be held Wednesday to address students missing schoo

Education is vital to a child’s future.
However, that child must be in the classroom to receive the full benefit. Chronic absenteeism is becoming a growing issue, including at schools in Abbeville. 
Local leaders are looking to address the issue and reach out to community members.
Two public meetings will be held this Wednesday, Jan. 15, at the Café on State, located at 106. S. State St. in Abbeville. The first meeting will be from 9 to 10 a.m., and the second from 6 to 7 p.m.
“Our initial goal for this meeting is to build awareness and understanding of chronic absenteeism—what it is, why it happens, and how it impacts our students and community,” said Kristin Moore, the Vermilion Parish School System’s Community Outreach Facilitator for Abbeville Schools. “We want to bring key stakeholders together to share insights and ideas for addressing the issue.”
The long-term goal is establishing a community-wide culture that values and prioritizes school attendance.
“By creating a sustainable support system for students and families,” Moore said, “we strive to improve attendance rates, increase student success, and strengthen the connection between schools and the wider community.”
Chronic absenteeism often goes unnoticed, Moore said.
“Its causes are complex and vary from student to student,” Moore explained. “Some families face barriers like transportation challenges, health issues, or economic hardships, while others may not fully understand the long-term effects of frequent absences. Additionally, without consistent, collaborative intervention, the problem can snowball, impacting student performance and overall school success.”
Organizers are encouraging everyone to attend.
“We are encouraging participation from anyone who wants to be part of the solution—educators, parents, community leaders, and concerned citizens,” Moore said. “Tackling chronic absenteeism requires a collective effort, and everyone’s input and support are valuable.”
This is an issue that affects the entire community.
“When students miss school,” Moore said, “it doesn’t just affect them individually; it impacts their families, the workforce, and the broader community. Absenteeism is tied to lower graduation rates, reduced job readiness, and fewer opportunities for our youth. By addressing it together, we’re investing in the success of our entire community.”
This meeting could serve as the spark needed.
“A campaign like the People Power Pledge brings awareness, accountability, and action to an issue that has lingered for too long,” Moore said. “When people come together with a shared purpose, they create the momentum needed for real change. This initiative is just the beginning, and I believe it can inspire our community to make attendance a priority and help all students thrive.”

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Mrs. Jansen Cole Weaver

Miss Paige Michelle Comeaux and Mr. Jansen Cole Weaver United in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony

Mon, 01/13/2025 - 2:26pm

Miss Paige Michelle Comeaux, of Abbeville, Louisiana and Mr. Jansen Cole Weaver, of Abbeville, Louisiana were united in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony during a 6:00 p.m. ceremony on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church in Abbeville, Louisiana. Father Louis Richard officiated the ceremony.
The Bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joey Comeaux of Abbeville, Louisiana. Grandparents of the bride are Cat and John Comeaux of Abbeville, Louisiana and the late Shawnee and Mike Detraz of Abbeville, Louisiana.
The Groom is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Scott Weaver of Abbeville, Louisiana. He is the grandson of the late Marjorie and Albert “Junior” Luquette of Abbeville, Louisiana and the late Floyd Weaver Jr. and the late Beverly Adams Fabre of Abbeville, Louisiana.
Escorted by her father, the bride wore the “Charlie” wedding dress by Justin Alexander. It is a sophisticated, classic gown from Justin Alexander’s Signature collection. It’s mikado fit-and-flare silhouette offers an elegant, timeless look. The square neckline provides a modern geometric design that emphasizes clean lines. The gown’s chapel length train, accented with a godet and mikado buttons, provides a subtle, yet impactful bridal moment. The bride wore an ivory cathedral length veil.
She carried a bouquet of ivory and blush roses, accenting her bouquet was a pendant with a photograph of her late grandmother and also her grandmother’s blue rosary.
Jennah Detraz, cousin of the bride, served as Maid of Honor. Bridesmaids included Annemarie Broussard, Alex Herpin, Abigail Kasten and Marissa Vasquez all friends of the bride and Madyson Weaver, sister of the groom. They wore black floor length crepe gowns, in the style of their choosing and carried bouquets of all ivory roses. Ellie Uriegas, served as flower girl.
Jacob Sagrera, friend of the groom, served as Best Man. Groomsmen were Cade Boudreaux, Hunter Frith, William Noegel and Austin Frederick all friends of the groom, and Dilan Comeaux, brother of the bride. Ushers for the ceremony included Chip LeBouef and Emile Trahan, friends of the bride and groom. Serving as Ring bearer were Jaxon and Beckham Weaver and Lucca Dugas.
Scriptures for the ceremony were read by Angie Detraz, aunt of the bride, and Rick Faul, cousin of the groom. Music for the ceremony was provided by Tommy Guidry and violin by Emil Ivanov.
Following the ceremony, a reception was held at Black’s Banquet and Receptions in Abbeville, Louisiana.
Upon their return from Broken Bow, Oklahoma honeymoon trip, the couple will reside in Abbeville, Louisiana.

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