Obituaries

John Roy Ewing, a native of Morganza, LA and resident of Port Allen, LA passed away on September 9, 2023 after a battle with Myxoid/ Round Cell Liposarcoma at the young age of 43. John is survived by his mother, Brenda Ewing; Father, Clyde Ewing (Lynn); sister, Karla Weston and husband Eric (whom he referred to as the brother he never had); sister Joni Ewing; niece and nephew Isabelle and Cody Weston; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Alvin and Mary Alice Boudreaux; John and Martha Jo Ewing; beloved Aunt (Nanny), Linda Boudreaux, and cousins Trish Johnson and Dan Ewing, Jr. He was a member of First Baptist Church New Roads, but also attended First Baptist Church in Port Allen. John was an alumni of False River Academy. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Business Management later in life thru Grantham University. John began his construction career working with his Dad, Clyde at Overton Construction. He then worked as a Certified Professional Estimator at Civil Design & Construction, Inc. for the last 13 years. John spent his spare time training and traveling the country (and world) competing in weight lifting events for the American Powerlifting Federation. He trained at Hardcore Barbell gym with his coach and mentor who became a best friend, Gary Frank. He was an avid sports fan since childhood and would amaze most people with his knowledge of sports related statistics on any sport. His favorite teams were his New Orleans Saints and Chicago Cubs. Most importantly though, John loved his family and friends. He loved family events – the food, the people, and the stories. He was loved by all and will be dearly missed by his family and friends. A visitation was held on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at First Baptist Church of New Roads from 9 a.m. until the memorial service at 12 noon. Burial followed at False River Memorial Park. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at MD Anderson for their care and treatment of John while he battled this disease. They would also like to give special thanks to Pointe Coupee Hospice, the staff at the LaCour House, and his sitters – Eddie, Tasha, and Betty, for the wonderful care they gave him in his last months. The family also asks that in lieu of flowers, to please consider sending memorial donations in honor of him to the FBCNR Flagpole/Memorial Plaza, the Jannell LaCombe Cancer Foundation or MD Anderson Cancer Center Foundation.

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying neither shall there be any more pain for the former things are passed away: Revelation 21:4 Earl Nelson Sr., was born to the late Rev. Isiah Nelson Sr. and Annie Dukes Nelson on November 4, 1941. He departed his journey of life peacefully on September 9, 2023. Earl was baptized at an early age under the leadership of the late Reverend Dave Wright Sr. He worked out his soul salvation for the Lord being an active guitar player for his church. Earl was a man of many talents and crafts. He worked numerous jobs, but his love was being a car dealer. He encountered many people and was well known in the community. He never met a stranger. Earl had a nickname for everyone he met because he would never remember your name. He loved telling jokes and entertaining others. His favorite saying was “Still black, still broke!” Earl was a strong and courageous man until the moment the Lord called him home. Funeral services Saturday, September 16, 2023, 11:00 a.m. (viewing 9-11 a.m.) Zion Travelers Baptist Church 11900 Pointe Coupee Rd. New Roads, La. 70760.

Fred Lee Dedon, Jr., “Skipper”, a resident of New Roads, LA, passed away on September 5, 2023, at the age of 78. He served as an officer in the U.S. Army National Guard after graduating from Poydras High School in 1962. He was a proud LSU alumnus and graduated with dual degrees in geology and engineering. In 1965, he won the NCAA national championship middle heavyweight title and focused on staying fit his entire life. Fred worked as a petroleum engineer for over 45 years with Tenneco Oil, Department of Revenue, Department of Conservation and KJ Company. Fred had a love for hunting at Ole Miss hunting club in his younger years and was an avid LSU fan. He enjoyed swamp pop music, camping, genealogy, and spending time with his family. Fred is survived by his wife of 47 years, Gilda Dedon and his children Melissa Jasso (Paul), Jennifer Dedon, Chris Dedon (Jennie), and Jacob Dedon (Jaclyn); ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren; mother-in-law Joan David and brother-in-laws Gary Jewell, Jeffrey “Ned” David (Darlene) and Andy David (Carol), He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Bernice Dedon, his sister, Bonnie Jewell, and his fatherin- law, John Lee David. A visitation will be held at Niland’s Funeral Home in New Roads, LA on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 9:00 am until 11:30 am. The memorial service will follow in the funeral home parlor at 11:30 am with the inurnment in False River Memorial Park. A small immediate family gathering to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made SCN2A.org.

Angela Latina Slaughter, a beloved resident of New Roads, Louisiana, passed away on August 27, 2023. Born on October 5, 1967, to Sally Jeanpierre and James Louis (Peter) Perkins, Angela attended Catholic High School of Pointe Coupee, graduating in 1985. She later became a certified nursing assistant after attending the American College Nursing School. On June 16, 1990, she married Adrian Slaughter, with whom she had a daughter, Shelby Nicole, and a son, Adrian James. Angela dedicated several years to working as a nursing assistant at various facilities, followed by private sitting to care for her family, especially her mother. Angela was known for her nurturing and kind nature. She leaves behind a loving legacy in Her daughter Shelby, her son Adrain, her grandson Adriel, godson Derek Scott, Jr, Aunt August Ladmirault, and numerous relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband Adrain Slaughter, parents Sally Jeanpierre Perkins and James Louis (Peter) Perkins, grandparents Gertrude and Paul Jeanpierre, Sr., Olivia and Willie Perkins Angela's beautiful life will forever be cherished in the hearts of those who loved her. Visiting at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 809 New Roads St., New Roads, LA on Friday, September 8th, from 10 a.m. until recitation of the rosary at 10:20 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at the church at 11:00 AM Friday, with Rev Joseph B. Benjamin, SSJ as celebrant. Repast at St. Augustine Church followed by Interment at 2pm in the Louisiana National Cemetery, Zachary, Louisiana.

Chester Lee Lathan well known as “Albert” was born on March 23, 1958 in the country of Erwinville, La. He peacefully entered eternal life on September 1, 2023 at the age of 65 at his resident in Jarreau, LA, after fighting a long battle with cancer. He was employed with Mike Woods Farming Company for 30 years as a truck driver until his illness took control. He was one of 14 children born to Robert and Helen Lathan. Albert enjoyed being with family he was a free spirit who fully embraced life. He is survived by his siblings George (Bernadett) Lathan; Roy (Pearl) Lathan; Ella LeDuff; Jeanette Moore; Besty (Nikita) Long; Ronald (Aisha) Lathan; Diane (Steve) Jackson, Sr.; Charles (Amanda) Lathan; Kevin (Keisha) Lathan; Donald Lathan. A spouse Mary Ann Johnson Lathan and her daughter Markesha T. Brue. He is preceded in death by his parents Helen and Robert Lathan; two sisters Barbara and Joan Lathan and one brother Robert Lathan Jr. Service to be held at Verrette's Funeral Home in New Roads on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.

Annie Marie Bonaventure Labatut was born on April 30, 1919 on a farm in Oscar, Louisiana. She peacefully entered eternal life on August 26, 2023 at the age of 104 lovingly surrounded by her family. She was one of nine children born to Paul and Alma St. Romain Bonaventure. Annie would often tell stories of her young life on the farm, playing and working hard. She would tell about the dolls they made out of corn cobs that they would play with. Annie affectionately talked about taking care of her younger siblings and all the hard work she did such as cutting sugar cane in the fields and picking cotton. She didn’t tell those stories with complaints but told them with pride. Annie would reminisce about getting in a boat and paddling across False River to go to the other side of the river to visit relatives. She often talked about how she would walk to the little one room schoolhouse. It was obvious how much she loved her life, parents and siblings. Annie met and then married Emmanuel Pierre Labatut (E.P.) on September 1, 1946. They made their home in New Roads and raised their family. They would have one son, Barry, and three daughters, Beverly, Denice, and Stacey. To her children, she was affectionately called Mommie. After her children were grown, E.P. and Annie would make their home in Lakeland, Louisiana. She was a caretaker of those in her family in times of illness. Annie would have 12 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren who she adored, and they adored her. She was the best wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother anyone could ask for. Annie loved people, and they loved her. She was a great cook and loved feeding her family. Annie had a great sense of humor with many funny sayings. She loved parties and socializing with family and friends. Annie was active well into her 90s, keeping up her house, walking for exercise, and driving until she was 94. She always said the secret to a long life was hard work. Annie is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Alma St. Romain Bonaventure; husband, Emmanuel Pierre Labatut (E.P.); brothers, Wilfred, Ivy, Edgar, Eugene, and Malley Bonaventure; sisters, Mae B. Jarreau, Delta B. Dugas, and Lorraine B. Pourciau; grandson, Wyatt Emmanuel Southwick. She is survived by her children, Barry Labatut (Dianne), Beverly L. Desselle (Clyde), Denice L. Major (Mark), and Stacey Labatut. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren: Alyssa Labatut Iennusa (John), Banyon Labatut (Tina), Damon Smith (Brandy), Jason Smith (Michelle), Estelle Smith, Ashley M. Ruffin (Jared), Brooke Major (Owen), Tyler Major, Ryan Laurent, Annie L. Drapekin (Brady), and Cameron Southwick. Visitation will be at Niland’s Funeral Home on Thursday, August 31, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:40 a.m. A Christian mass will be held at St. Mary’s of False River Catholic Church at 12:00 noon, followed by burial next to her beloved husband at False River Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be her grandsons, Damon and Jason Smith, Banyon Labatut, Tyler Major, Ryan Laurent, and Cameron Southwick. Honorary Pallbearers will be her nephews, sons-in-law Mark Major and Clyde Desselle, and special family friend, Tommy Thibaut. The family would like to thank the staff at Lakeview Manor Nursing Home, especially Latasha Louis, CNA, sitters Selina, Denise, and Tanya, and Pointe Coupee Hospice. May Eternal Rest be granted to her and may the angels lead her into Paradise. May Our Savior Jesus Christ and Mary, our mother, veil her in the tender mercies of our Almighty Father, whose loving hand held hers throughout her entire life.

“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand; I have fought a good fight; I have finished my course; I have kept the faith…” 2 Timothy 4:6-7 Charles Phillip Oliver Jr. well known as “Chuckie” was born on March 21, 1966, in Kenner Louisiana, to Millie Joseph Oliver and the late Charles Phillip Oliver Sr. He passed away at Ochsner Hospital in Kenner, Louisiana on August 7, 2023. He was 57 years old. Chuckie received his first communion at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church and was recently Baptized at Mt. Zion Baptist Church by Rev. Isiah Franklin Jr. He received his early education at Bissonet Plaza and later at Bonnabel High School. He worked offshore for several years and later as a security guard until his health declined. Chuckie was popular and greeted everyone with a smile. He never met a stranger and enjoyed sharing stories with others. Chuckie was a free spirit who fully embraced life. As a kid, Chuckie looked forward to summer vacations in the country with his grandparents in New Roads and Ventress, Louisiana. Chuckie cherished every opportunity to celebrate life with family and loved ones.Chuckie leaves to cherish his memory two sons, Fredrick Grant (Mother-Garla) and Charles Clide Oliver (Mother-Rosalind); two stepchildren Shalon and Leslie Reed; two grandchildren Fredrick Grant Jr. and Alaysia Grant; Mother Millie Joseph Oliver Myles (Mack); two sisters Marcella Oliver Strauder (Terry) and Daphne Oliver Smith (Kawyski); three step siblings Sharon Myles, Steven Myles and Mack Myles Jr.; Godparents Lena Mae Jeanpierre and Joseph J. Demoulin Jr.; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends; and a devoted partner Trinnell Jackson.Chuckie is preceded in death by his father Charles Phillip Oliver Sr.; paternal and maternal grandparents; two paternal uncles; four maternal uncles; one maternal aunt and one stepbrother.

Bunice Soileau Leger, a resident of Livonia, LA, passed away at her home on August 21, 2023 at the age of 93. Bunice was a devoted member of St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church where she was committed to the bereavement and cleaning committee. Her devotion to her Catholic faith never wavered as she prayed her rosary religiously. She enjoyed gardening, cooking and spending time with her loved ones. Bunice is survived by her children, Margie LeJeune (Glenn), Carolyn Leger, Harry Leger (Cynthia), Cynthia Circello (William), and Gordon Leger; brother, James Soileau (Loretta); grandchildren, Valerie “Dee” Jarreau (Kurt), Wanda Jarreau (Richard), Shannon Verucchi, Laina Moore (Launce), Twanna LeJeune (Scotty), Rhonda Pinsonat (Craig), Deuce Leger (Tessa), Cody Circello (Denise), Casey Circello (Krystle), Dustin Leger, and Molly Duplechain; great grandchildren, Kristen Sonnier (Tyson), Hayden Bass (Austin), Jarrod Jarreau (Annette), Cole Jarreau, Caleb Gressett, Joshua Gressett, Jordan Moore (Madison), Mallorie Ducote (Gage), Sabrina LeJeune, Trey Pinsonat, Cayla Pinsonat, Lauren Leger, Alexis Leger, Riley Circello, and Emma Circello; great-great grandchildren, Zane Sonnier, Madden Sonnier, Blayne Bass, and Waylon Jarreau. Preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Bertha Soileau; husband, Avie Blanco Leger, grandchild, Jarrod Christopher Sparks; and a brother, JY Soileau. Visiting will be held at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church on Thursday, August 24, 2023 from 9:00 am until the Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 am. The burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Port Barre, LA. Pallbearers will be Cody Circello, Deuce Leger, Dustin Leger, Casey Circello, William Circello, and Glenn LeJeune. Honorary Pallbearers will be Harry Leger and Gordon Leger.

IN LOVING MEMORY Born: August 9, 1961 Died: August 15, 2019 You Meant So Much It has been four years, since the Lord called you home. You meant so much to all of us You were special and that’s no lie You brightened up the darkest day And our cloudiest sky Your smile alone warmed hearts Your laugh was like music to hear We would give absolutely anything To have you well and standing near Not a second passes When you’re not on our minds Your love we will never forget The hurt will ease in time Many tears we have seen and cried They have all poured out like rain I know that you are happy now And no longer in pain You are loved by beyond words And missed beyond measure.

Melba Rose Savoy Monceret passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at the age of 83, at Bayou Chateau Nursing Home in Simmesport, LA, surrounded by family. Melba was born on June 29, 1940 to the late Gervis and Ella (Theriot) Savoy. She was born and raised in Opelousas, LA and graduated from TH Harris Vocational School as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Melba married Dr. Joseph E. Monceret, and resided in New Roads, LA. She was a loving daughter, wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great grandmother. She enjoyed baking, cooking, and working in her yard. She served alongside her husband in his dental practice throughout his career. Melba was affectionately known as “Melba Toast” to many. She was a member of St. Mary’s of False River Catholic Church and was very strong in her faith. Melba is survived by her three children, Leon Monceret, II, DDS (Allyson) of Sunset, LA, André Monceret (Virginia) of New Roads, LA, Jeffere’ Monceret (Tonya) of Opelousas, LA; daughter-in-law, Larye Morrow of New Roads, LA; grandchildren, Callie Monceret Callais (Mitchell), Jacques, Hunter, Gracie, Macy, Jean- Marc, Cade, Pierre, Reese, and Brinkley Monceret; great grandchildren, Ember Ann and Ada-Lee Louise Callais; sister, Joyce Savoy; brothers, Larry Savoy (Kathleen), Patrick Savoy (Patricia), George Savoy and Johnny Savoy (Judy); as well as numerous nieces, nephews; and bonus grandchildren, Caroline and Ava Morrow. Melba was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph E. Monceret, DDS; infant daughter, Monique Monceret; infant son, Joseph Monceret; her parents, Gervis and Ella Savoy; maternal grandparents, Joseph and Felicien (Delahousaye) Theriot; paternal grandparents, Willie and Katherine (Defalco) Savoy; and siblings, Gloria Soileau, Sue Mayeaux, Kenneth Savoy, Benny Savoy, David Savoy, Gerald Savoy and Rodney Savoy. Pall Bearers will be Jacques Monceret, Jean – Marc Monceret, Pierre Monceret, Hunter Monceret, Cade Monceret, Mitchel Callais, Trohn Blanchard, and Eric Settoon. Visitation will be held at St. Mary’s of False River Catholic Church Parish Hall in New Roads, LA on Thursday, August 17, 2023 from 9:00 am until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. Committal Service will follow at False River Memorial Cemetery. Special thank you to the staff at The Lacour House Assisted Living in New Roads, LA and Bayou Chateaux Nursing Home in Simmesport, LA.