Melvin "Boo" Derouen

It is with great sorrow and deep love that the Derouen family announces the passing of Melvin “Boo” Derouen, who entered eternal rest on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the age of 80. Boo passed away peacefully in his sleep and went on to his eternal glory.

Melvin James Derouen was born on November 14, 1945, in New Iberia to the late Ernest Derouen and Lilly Barrilleaux Derouen. Although born in New Iberia, he was raised on Avery Island in a family steeped in Cajun heritage. Boo was proud to call Avery Island home and remained in close contact with many family members there throughout his life. He carried the history of Avery Island in his heart and was always eager to share its stories and memories of growing up on the Island.

Boo was a man of great stature—strong not only in physical strength, but also in faith, commitment, and character. As big as Boo was in presence, his heart was even greater, filled with love and compassion for everyone he met. He was a dedicated and hardworking man, retiring from Halliburton Energy Services after 31 years, 5 months, and 22 days of loyal service. In recognition of his commitment, Halliburton honored him with a commemorative plaque.

Outside of work, Boo was an avid car enthusiast with a passion for antiques. He and his beloved wife, Brenda, were the proud owners of a 1955 Pontiac Star Chief, beautifully painted in the classic copper and cream colors of the era and kept in pristine condition. Boo took great pride in caring for the car, always ensuring it was trailered and covered when traveling to events. Together, they were members of the Antique Automobile Club of America (Evangeline Chapter) and the Cruisin’ Cajuns Car Club.

Boo also enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, and sports. Over the years, he and Brenda traveled extensively across the United States and to Hawaii and Alaska, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Family members fondly recall their trip to Booger Hollow, Arkansas, filled with excitement and laughter, as well as a visit to Marsh Island where relentless mosquitoes quickly sent them packing for home. Boo also treasured many fishing trips with his brother-in-law, Willie, often saying with a smile, “They bite on the white.” A devoted sports fan, Boo was an enthusiastic LSU supporter and famously had two televisions set up—one with sound and one muted—so he and Brenda could keep up with all the day’s games. He also enjoyed quieter moments, relaxing with a good book and letting the story take him away.

Above all else, Boo was a good and faithful servant of God. He was a longtime parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, where he faithfully served as an usher since 1982. Boo and Brenda shared a deep and abiding faith, and not long ago had their marriage blessed in the Church, celebrating a union truly made in heaven.

Boo will be dearly missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. His stories will continue to be shared with smiles and laughter for generations to come. Boo, may your soul and the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. We love you.

Those left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, best friend, and traveling partner of 58 years, Brenda Pellerin Derouen; his nieces and nephew, Leifa Leleux (one of his Godchildren), Gretchen Yax, and Kevin Provost (Cyndi); his other Godchildren, Charles Pharr, Jr. and Annabeth Provost; his sister-in-law, Cynthia Elmer (Willie); his brother-in-law, Darryl Pellerin (Anne); and numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Lilly Derouen; his sisters, Dolores Derouen and Peggy Derouen Provost (Loadice); his niece and nephews, Denise P. Breaux, Kevin Elmer, and Bradley Richardson; his parents-in-law, Willis and Maudry Pellerin; and his in-laws, Marjorie and Donald Poche'.

A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Boo’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, with Fr. Garrett Savoie, Pastor, serving as celebrant. Following the Mass, Boo will be laid to rest at Holy Family Mausoleum.

A gathering of family and friends will be held on Monday from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with the recitation of the Rosary at 6:00 p.m. Visitation will resume on Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., followed by dismissal.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Willie Elmer, Bart Guidroz, Sam Provost, Kevin Provost, Jackson Frugé, and Richard Gary. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Evangeline Chapter of the AACA and the Cruisin’ Cajuns Car Club.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Boo’s name to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Building Fund, 1303 St. Jude Ave. New Iberia, LA 70560 or to a charity of one’s choice.

Relatives and friends are encouraged to share fond memories and condolences with the family by visiting Boo’s memorial page at www.evangelinenewiberia.com.

Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.