Walter Joseph DeGravelle, Jr., a lifelong resident of New Iberia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the age of 90, after a brief week in hospice care. Born on August 20, 1935, to the late Walter De Gravelle, Sr. and Mary “Nell” Sanford DeGravelle in New Orleans, LA. He departed this life of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of faith, education, and service to his community.
A dedicated educator for many years, Walter devoted his life to shaping young minds in Iberia Parish. He taught at Elizabeth Forgey Elementary and New Iberia Middle School before serving as the longtime principal of Peebles Elementary. Throughout his career, he took immense pride in his students, celebrating their achievements and encouraging them to reach their fullest potential. His influence extended far beyond the classroom, touching generations of families in the community.
Walter’s own educational journey began as a graduate of St. Peter’s College in 1953. He later continued his studies at SLI (now the University of Louisiana) and went on to earn his master’s degree from McNeese State University. His commitment to learning was lifelong and deeply rooted in his belief in the transformative power of education.
A man of deep and abiding faith, Walter was an active and devoted member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church for many decades. He generously gave his time through countless volunteer efforts, always eager to serve his parish and support its many activities. His spirituality was centered on a profound devotion to the Divine Mercy, and he fervently wished for all to come to know and trust in God’s boundless mercy.
Walter was also a faithful member of the Lay Carmelite Community, a commitment he held since 1953. This spiritual path guided his life of prayer, humility, and service, and was a source of strength and purpose throughout his years.
He will be remembered for his kindness, his unwavering faith, his dedication to education, and his enduring love for his community. Walter’s life was a testament to quiet service and steadfast belief, and his memory will live on in the many lives he touched.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are his very close friend Linda Tuch, one brother, Camille “Cam” DeGravelle of Thibodaux; his brother-in-law, Herb Lowery of Baton Rouge and many nieces and nephews who admired him and with whom he was very close.
Along with his parents he is preceded in death by two sisters, Alice D. Lowery and Mary Ellen D. Krall; two brothers, William “Bill” and Fernand Jarvis DeGravelle; sister-in-law, Judy Becnel DeGravelle and brother-in-law, Mike Krall.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 11:00 am at St. Peter’s Catholic Church with Fr. Ed Degeyter officiating. Deacon Michael Krall and Fr. Joe Varghese will concelebrate.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday from 9:00 am until time of service at St. Peter’s Catholic Church. A rosary and Divine Mercy will be recited at 9:30 am.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Brian DeGravelle, Eric DeGravelle, Craig DeGravelle, Michael Krall IV, Patrick Krall and Joshua Pickell.
Memorial donations may be made in his name to EWTN, PO Box 100097, Irondale, AL 35210.
Family and friends are invited to share their memories and condolences by visiting his memorial page at www.evangelinenewiberia.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.
