Dad was taken to heaven with Angels’ Wings on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at 12:30 pm, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and devotion. He passed away peacefully at his home in Jarreau at the age of 96. He was born on March 13,1930, to Harry and Cora Melancon, growing up alongside two brothers and five sisters. A celebration of life will be held at Immaculate Conception Church in Lakeland on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Visitation will be from 9 am – 11am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am, conducted by Father Amrit Raj. Interment with full military honors rendered by the U.S. Army will follow at False River Memorial Park in New Roads. Harry will be laid to rest next to his beloved wife and soulmate, Mable, together again in GOD’S heavenly kingdom.
Harry married the love of his life, Mable Pascalin Melancon, on July 25,1955. Together, they embarked on a 21-year long journey that took them around the world as Harry served as a U.S. Army soldier during the Korean and Vietnam wars. He took immense pride in his service to his country. He received numerous medals and awards retiring in 1968 as a Sergeant First Class (E7). Together, Harry and Mable then settled in Jarreau raising their three daughters and passing on the belief that GOD, faith, and family are the most important things in life.
Dedicated and devoted, Harry always ensured his family’s needs were met. He cherished family gatherings and vacations, especially trips to the beach. A man of remarkable generosity, known to many as “Boo,” he truly never met a stranger, always ready to help anyone in need. Outside of his family, he found great joy in working on outdoor projects and mastering work with his tractor. He took pride in helping his neighbors with yard work, often teaching how to “properly drain a ditch” by creating a “V-Ditch.” Known for being strong-willed and determined, Harry never gave up. A lover of country music, he often played his guitar and sang along to his favorite artist, Hank Williams. Frequently quoting Hank’s words, he made it clear that “Hank” was above all other musicians. Ultimately, nothing compared to the deep affection and special bond he had with his five treasured cats, whom Mom fondly referred to as the “true Kings and Queens of the house.”
Harry is survived by a large family who will hold his memory close to their hearts forever. He leaves behind three loving daughters: Diana (Shane) Matherne, Debbie (Greg) Guichet, and Donna (Brian) Cline; seven grandchildren: Shane Major, Shara Horne, Jeremy (Blake) Guichet, Jacob (Kaitlyn) Guichet, Jonas Guichet, Logan Worley, and Layton (Dakota) Cline; eleven great-grandchildren: Reece Major, Pacey, Elliot, Julien, Bennett, Isla, and Asher Guichet, Lucas and Jaxon Worley, Waylen and Evy Cline; two sisters: Golda Pourciau and Becky LeCoq; and nephew, AJ Pourciau, who has always gone above and beyond in taking special care of both Harry and Mable.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Mable Melancon; his parents, Harry and Cora Gros Melancon; brothers, Clifford and Morris Melancon; sisters, Elsie Bergeron, Gladys Bordelon, and Rena David; and son-in-law, Christian Major.
Pallbearers will be his grandsons: Shane, Jeremy, Jacob, Jonas, Logan, and Layton.
The Melancon family is deeply grateful for the care and compassion provided to our Dad from Dr. McLemore and staff, and the Pointe Coupee Home Health and Hospice team, especially JoAnn and Todd. Our deepest gratitude goes to Dad’s devoted, loving caregivers -Betty, Tytiana, Saiesha and Shari -all of whom we consider a part of our family. We are eternally thankful for the exceptional, loving care they have provided for both Dad and Mom over the last five years.
