Norma Thibodeaux

Norma Beatrice Lee Thibodeaux, a beloved matriarch, and pillar of her family and community, was called to eternal rest on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the age of 93. Born on September 27, 1931, in Houston, Texas, to the late Velma Hopes Bennett, Norma lived a life marked by grace, resilience, and unwavering love.

A proud graduate of Jeanerette Colored High School in 1950, Norma pursued her education further at Lincoln Business College in Beaumont, Texas, earning her degree in 1951. Her dedication to serving others inspired her to complete her nursing studies at Acadiana Nursing Neighborhood Service Center in 1967.

Norma was united in holy matrimony to the late Walter Thibodeaux. Together, they built a family grounded in faith, compassion, and a commitment to excellence.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted brother, Claude (Rosetta) Bennett of Chula Vista, CA; nine loving children: Elliott D. Thibodeaux, Deborah A.(Terry) St. Julian, and Troy J. Thibodeaux of New Iberia, LA; Telemachus J. Thibodeaux of Lafayette, LA; Ulyssesus P. (Kazue) Thibodeaux of King George County, VA; Dwight A. Thibodeaux, Sonja L. Thibodeaux and Darlene J. Thibodeaux of Houston, TX; and Ruth V. Thibodeaux Perry of Carencro, LA.

Her legacy is carried on by her 16 cherished grandchildren: Ladasha (Mike) Hebert, Beatrice (Dion) Conley, Latoya (DeMarcus) Mack, Elias (Paula) St. Julian, Samuel St. Julian, Marcus St. Julian, Ashton D. Kelly, Tevin (Shakarah) Kelly, Desiree Onyeneho, Ulyssesus Thibodeaux Jr., Troy Thibodeaux Jr., Tyrese Thibodeaux, Aaliyah Thibodeaux, Shafonta (Joseph) Andrus, Jarel Perry, and Tyrus (John Isaac) Perry; as well as her 29 greatgrandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends who loved her dearly.

Norma was preceded in death by her former husband, Walter Thibodeaux; her beloved daughter, Dessie Thibodeaux Onyeneho; her brother, Wash Hamilton Bennett III; her sister, Sheila Ann Johnson; and her mother, Velma Hopes Bennett. Norma’s life was a testament to the power of love, education, and service. She touched countless lives with her wisdom, humor, and gentle spirit. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of all who knew her.