Jean C. “Hep” Fairchild left this life on June 8, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was 81, having lived his entire life in St. Gabriel except for a brief stint in the armed forces. Jean was a U.S. Air Force veteran, having served four years during the Vietnam conflict. He was an E-4, as a jet engine mechanic. He retired from AT&T in October 1997 after more than 30 years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam A. and Mattie Bourque Fairchild. He was one of 10 siblings. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Elise. He also is survived by his four children and their spouses: Yvette and Andy Crawford, Misty and Larry Thomas, Cindy and Pat Melancon Jr., and Jude and Kayla Fairchild. He also had 11 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Visitation will be at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 3625 LA-75, St. Gabriel, LA 70776, on Wednesday, June 12, from 9 a.m. until a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Followed by a committal service.
