October 19, 1961 – December 26, 2025
The Sonnier family announces that Phillip Noel Sonnier is now in the presence of his Lord. Though our hearts are saddened, we still want to rejoice, for he lived for this moment, to meet his Savior, Jesus Christ, face to face. He finished his race here on earth on Friday, December 26, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was 64.
Phillip was born on October 19, 1961, in New Iberia to the late Irving Joseph Sonnier and the late Elva Jane DesOrmeauxSonnier. One of six sons, he was raised in Franklin, Louisiana, in a family rich in Cajun heritage and deep faith. From an early age, he was taught the values of hard work, honesty, and compassion for others—principles that guided his life.
He was known by many names; Sweetheart, Daddy, Phillip, Uncle Will, Brother Phil, Buddy, Parrain, Papán. But we are pretty sure that his favorite name was “Poppa!” He loved his grandchildren with all of his heart and cherished every moment he had with them. Everyone who knew him would agree that he was the best Poppa ever!
Phillip retired as a Superintendent in the oilfield after many years of dedicated service with several companies throughout the Acadiana area. Most recently, he worked with Chart Coastal at the Port of Iberia and previously with Unifab, Brown & Root, Twin Brothers and Seawolf. His experience, leadership, and work ethic were deeply respected and appreciated by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Outside of work, Phillip centered his life around his faith and family. In his younger years, he played softball in Franklin and was known as the league’s “all-star.” Competitive by nature, Phillip approached every sport and game with a strong desire to win. A favorite family story, shared by his son Derrick, recalls that Phillip taught him to play chess at just three years old—and unlike many parents, Phillip never let him win. Derrick didn’t defeat his dad until he was 13, and even then, Phillip was far from pleased. That same competitive spirit was carried into game nights with friends, especially the game of Phase 10, where he was relentless in his pursuit of victory.
Phillip also found great joy in gardening, He took pride in maintaining his vegetables and loved to brag about his 18” cucumbers, which he generously shared with others. Best coffee you will ever drink came from his house. He loved to cook, and enjoyed gathering with friends and family, visiting and sharing meals.
What was most important to Phil was His trust in His Savior and his desire to share his faith so others could come to the knowledge of salvation in Christ alone. We can all take notice of that. He never missed a day spending time worshiping his Savior, reading the Word of God, and praying for others. He had a servant’s heart, leading Bible studies, ushering, greeting and being available. He would be the first to say He was not a perfect man, but it was evident that he loved Jesus extravagantly and with a perfect heart.
His heart was especially drawn to ministries that served others, including the church food pantry, prison ministry, and outreach to the elderly, where he shared scripture and encouragement. He had a rare gift of connecting with people—celebrating their joys, comforting them in sorrow, and offering a helping hand whenever needed. He laughed with you, cried with you, and lifted you up when you were down.
Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in our faith and the promise that we will one day see him again in Heaven. Until that day, may you rest in peace, Phillip. You are deeply loved and will be dearly missed.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife and best friend of 24 years, Eva Dautreuil Sonnier; his son, Derrick Sonnier (Lacey); his stepchildren, Bonnie Hippler, Ben Hippler (Danielle), and Kevin Hippler; six precious grandchildren, Bishop Joseph Sonnier, Audrey Anne Hippler, Aria Jolie Hippler, Logan Silas Hippler, Maddox Hayes Soileau, and Colden James Cowie; his brothers, Dennis Sonnier (Joyce), Michael Sonnier, Sr., David Sonnier (Lori), and Danny Graffeo (Sharon); his former wife and the mother of his son, Tammy Suire Sonnier; his sister-in-law, Rhonda Sonnier; his Godchildren, Ryan Suire, Rebekah Bonvillian (Jake), Kaylie Suire Martinez (Guillermo), Caleb Sorrel (Jaci), and Stevey Green (Jamarkus); along with a host of nieces and nephews.
Along with his parents, Phillip was preceded in death by his brother, John A. Sonnier, Sr., and his sisters-in-law, Betty Sonnier and Donna Sonnier.
Funeral services celebrating Phillip’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at First Assembly of God Church, 3555 Verot School Road in Youngsville, with Pastor Joe Cormier officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Following the service, Phillip will be laid to rest at Our Lady of the Lake Mausoleum in Delcambre.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Brian Sonnier, Matthew Sonnier, Michael Sonnier, Jr., Ben Hippler, Caleb Sorrel, and Kevin Hippler. John Sonnier, Jr. (John John) will serve as an honorary pallbearer.
In keeping with Phillip’s lifelong desire to help those in need, memorial contributions may be made in his name to First Assembly of God Church to support the ministries closest to his heart, including food assistance, prison outreach, missions work and elder ministry, where he served faithfully.
Relatives and friends are invited to share their condolences and memories of Phillip by visiting his memorial page at www.evangelinedelcambre.com
(http://www.evangelinedelcambre.com/).Evangeline Funeral Home of Delcambre is entrusted with arrangements.
