Calvin C. Simon

Calvin C. Simon, 71, of Gonzales, Louisiana, passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. A proud graduate of Romeville High School, Calvin worked as an Operator and Supervisor at Shell Chemical Plant for many years. He was a highly regarded figure in the local community, known for his culinary talents, notably being the 1986 World Champion Jambalaya Cook and the 1995 Gonzales Jambalaya Festival Champion of Champs. His love for cooking and the art of jambalaya was only matched by his passion for spending time outdoors. Calvin thoroughly enjoyed camping with his crew, beach trips, and always followed his family with great pride at their various activities. He is preceded in death by his parents, Neil I. Simon and Lois Frederic Simon; his mother and father-in-law, Perry Schexnayder Sr. and Agnes Breaux Schexnayder; and his brother-in-law, Andy Louque. Calvin is survived by his loving wife of many years, Ann Schexnayder Simon; children, Jeremy (Toni) Simon, Erin (Peter) Simon Rodrigue, and Alicia (Jeremy) Simon Jumonville; grandchildren, Berklee Jumonville, Baylor Jumonville, Reid Rodrigue, and Rylan Rodrigue; sisters, Mary (Daryl) Waguespack and Peggy Louque; as well as his godchildren, Nicole Frazier and Sheri Louque. Pallbearers honored to serve include Donovan Waguespack, Dal Waguespack, Perry Schexnayder Jr., Scott Schexnayder, Chad Goubert, Lance Babin, and Dwayne Boudreaux. Honorary pallbearers include Berklee Jumonville, Baylor Jumonville, Reid Rodrigue, and Rylan Rodrigue. The family would like to extend special thanks to family friend, Dr. John Fraiche, as well as the first responders and the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office for their swift response and assistance during this difficult time. Visitation will be held Monday, January 13, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Theresa of Avila Catholic Church, 1022 N Burnside Ave, Gonzales, Louisiana 70737. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 AM, with a committal service at 12:30 PM at Hope Haven on Hwy 30. Calvin will be remembered fondly for his warmth, generosity, and zest for life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.