Cecile Andrea Rousseau

Cecile’s Obit Cecile A. Rousseau, long time Clark County educator, died August 3, 2014. Her son James, granddaughter Lili and many friends survive her. Her husband, The Rev. Dr. John Rousseau preceded her in death. Cecile was born in Biarritz, France (Basque country) Dec. 21, 1930 and attended schools in Paris. She was a young teen during the occupation of WW2. She had a fashion and marketing career with the Silk Industry following High School and traveled with some of the top fashion designers of the time. In the 1960’s she moved to the U.S. Cecile and John were married April, 10, 1964. After he received a Divinity degree and was ordained, together they served United Methodist Churches in Hawaii and Boulder City, NV. Cecile earned a B.A. in English and French at LaVerne College, Claremont, CA and M.A. in Education and M.A. in French at the University of Hawaii. She taught many years in Hawaii, in both public and private schools. In Las Vegas, she taught French and Spanish at Clark High School and Cimarron-Memorial High School before moving to the foreign language magnet school, the Las Vegas Academy of International Studies and Performing Arts. She established the curriculum there for French language immersion and cultural studies. Cecile was very active in cultural and professional organizations including the Alliance Francaise, the American Association of Teachers of French, NV Language Assoc,, She was honored by official decree of the French Department of Education and was nominated into the National Order of the “Palmes Academique” in recognition of her long time involvement and activities in the promotion and the teaching of the French language and culture. She was a member of University United Methodist Church, Assistance League of Las Vegas, and P.E.O. NV Chapter V. She traveled the world with Friendship Force. Cecile was an avid reader and member of both French and English reading groups. She was an equestrian and loved all animals. She was also a consummate cook and hostess. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, Aug 16th at 11:00 a.m. at University United Methodist Church, 4412 S. Maryland Parkway, Las Vegas, NV Suggested memorials to: Best Friends Animal Society www.bestfriends.org or University United Methodist Church