E.J. DeRouen Sr.

E.J. Joseph DeRouen Sr. was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He fell in love with our mother the first time he saw her on the dance floor wearing a yellow dress. He is survived by his beautiful wife of almost 68 years, Shirley Ann DeRouen; his two sons E.J. DeRouen Jr., and Markam DeRouen Sr., and his daughter, Melyssa DeRouen. He was also blessed with 10 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 9 great-great grandchildren: for a total of 46 grandchildren.

He was reunited in heaven with his parents and his son, Michael DeRouen.

Our father had a deep passion for music. His first instrument was a guitar that was made from a cigar box. He joined the Army to serve his country; on his free time, he was singing and playing his guitar in a band which brought joy to his fellow countrymen. As time went on the band he was in became the opening act for several popular bands. He traveled for a season playing in bands singing and entertaining. As he got older, he continued to share his music. He started playing his guitar and keyboard and singing for members of the camping clubs he and our mother belonged to. We heard him sing and play for hours every day—it was a soundtrack to our lives for many years. Going to church was very important to our father. He was a good example of giving God honor.

“As the provider for our family, he became a businessman and entrepreneur by day and a musician by night—always working hard never giving up on his love for music”. He also had a dry sense of humor that not everyone understood—LOL—but those of us who did appreciated it deeply.

Our family was truly blessed, we never went without love, and our needs were always met. Our father had a generous heart, and together, our parents made sure we were taken care of. We created many cherished memories, traveling across Louisiana and to different states, camping and meeting people along the way.

Dad, we will hold you close to our hearts, we will miss you dearly. You exemplified how an honest and Godly gentleman should be, and you taught us all how to manage our money wisely. The legacy you built over your 93 years of life will live on through the wonderful family you and our mother created.

A day of celebration will be held for E.J. on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 1pm until 3pm at the Bayou Vista Community Center.

Arrangements have been entrusted into the care of Hargrave Funeral Home.