Shirley Richard Dartez, a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Wednesday May 26, 2021. She lived a beautiful life of 86 years.
Shirley was born May 22, 1935 in New Iberia to the late Arista Richard and the late Emily Louviere Richard. After her graduation from high school, she attended secretarial college and began a career with McIlhenny Company on Avery Island. For over three decades, she proudly served as the Executive Secretary to the McIlhenny's and loved her job. Being a single mother at that time, she took on other jobs to make sure her family had what they needed and began sewing and ironing from her home. She would meet and marry her faithful husband, Philip Dartez, on April 3, 1972 and together they raised their family.
Although busy with her career, she did have pastimes that were relaxing and fun for her. She crocheted and sewed making sure to hand make things for her grandchildren, and she enjoyed sitting down with her Sudoku puzzle book for quiet time. Above all, it was easy to see that Shirley's greatest passion was her family. The children spoke of their beautiful mother, recalling her life as being one of simplicity, while filled with the greatest of loves, her family, and that was all she needed. Shirley's legacy will forever live on in the hearts and thoughts of her family. Always remember that special "a maw kiss" and hold those memories dear. Until we meet again, rest well Maw.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Joseph G. "Sonny" Breaux, Jr. and wife Sandra, Dewana Breaux Louviere, and Jessica Breaux Case and husband Ryan; her grandchildren, Kristin Breaux Keeter, Casey Breaux Carriere and husband Tyler, Tyler Louviere and wife Yifan Sun, Tori Louviere Rothchild and husband Andrew and Courtni Case; and her great grandchildren, Chloe' Caroline Keeter, Emma Kate Keeter, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Clare Keeter, Carter Joseph Carriere, Liam Philip Carriere, Jensen Lynn Rothchild, Louie Alice Rothchild and expected in July, the Louviere twins.
Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Philip Dartez.
In keeping with Shirley's wishes, private services were held with her immediate family to celebrate the beautiful life she lived. Fr. William Schambough, a very dear friend of the family, was the officiant. Following the service, she was laid to rest alongside her husband at St. Marcellus Cemetery, with her family serving as pallbearers.
Family and friends may share their memories, condolences and support by visiting Mrs. Shirley's memorial page at www.evangelinefuneralhome.com.
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia was in charge of arrangements.
