Fernell Guy "Preacher" Lavigne

2 Timothy 4: 7-8.

Preacher was born in Gonzales, La. on July 1, 1931, to Emile and Gertude Pierson Lavigne, Sr. He passed away at his home on September 5, 2024, at the age of 93. A legendary man with a personality larger than life. A man whose faith was lived out by his actions of caring, giving, and loving. He was a wonderful son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who will surely be missed. An outstanding role model for his entire family as well as those who knew him. He never met a stranger, and his personality lit up the room. He would want to be remembered as “Preacher”, a man who understood that the best and most beautiful things in life, can’t be bought but must be shared from the heart. His zest for life was amazing; from simple to complicated. Preacher truly was a “Jack of all trades”! He was a perfectionist and gave everything 100%. He was an exceptional family man who raised four beautiful daughters. There was a simple joy in his essence that he shared with everyone he met. Known for his ease in conversation with strangers, as well as his family and friends. He won the trust of everyone around him. Preacher had a great sense of humor and the ability to tell a story or funny joke. He had his wits about him and was sharp as a tack to the very end, always remembering everything. He was the life of the party. After his retirement, Preacher lived his life around his family. He loved getting together for any reason. Cookouts, taking care of his yard, and working in his shed were some of his favorite pastimes. He loved taking the grandchildren and great grandchildren on the 4-wheeler and going into the woods and allowing them to play in their little house. He made each one feel so special and loved helping others. Preacher was an avid hunter and fisherman. Preacher was a member of First Baptist Church of Gonzales, a Mason (a lifetime member of New River Masonic Lodge #402), and a member of Local 995 IBEW since 1949, receiving his 75-year member certificate and diamond pin. He was extremely proud when his brother, Lonnie, came to present it to him. Preacher served as Constable of the 3rd Justice of the Peace Court in Ascension Parish for 28 years. He loved politics and supporting the Democratic party. He could strike up a great political conversation with anyone who was willing to listen. Survived by his beautiful wife, Mae J. Lavigne, this summer they celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary. They met on a blind date and were married 6 weeks later. He is survived by his three daughters, Darlene (Randal) LeBlanc, Charlene Parker, Lisa Noble, and a son-in-law, Sheryl Moulard. Grandchildren Craig (LeAnn), Brady (Tiffany), and Michael Moulard, Brooke (Alex) Knight, Brittney (Jason) May, Allyson Parker, and Noah Noble. His great grandchildren Savannah and Brayden Moulard, Hays, Bennett Guy, and Reese Knight, Madison, Mackenzie, and John Michael May and his great, great grandchildren, Rhett, Easton, and Remington. Preacher is survived by his sisters Virginia (Ginny) Meche, Lois Avery, Leontine Weaver, and Joyce Andrews. His brothers John and Lawerence (Lonnie) Lavigne, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Preacher was preceded in death by a daughter, Linda Moulard, his parents Emile and Gertrude Lavigne, sisters Hilda Weishar, Glorydean Templet, Clara Burratt, Mercedean Waguespack, brothers Emile Lavigne, Jr., Joe Lavigne, and Perry James Lavigne. He felt blessed to see each of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren grow up. He lovingly focused on their lives with tremendous pride no matter his circumstances. He was widely known for his acute wisdom and uncanny common sense. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to a charity in honor of our father, F. G. “Preacher” Lavigne. His favorite charities were the Shriners and St. Jude. Our family is truly grateful for your many expressions of love, support, and kindness. We would especially like to thank his neighbors, Fay Sheets and Tom and Becky Doughty. In accordance with dad’s wishes, he will be cremated. Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life service on Monday, September 16, 2024 at the First Baptist Church of Gonzales, 1217 Burnside Ave. Gonzales, LA 70737. The visitation will begin at 10:00 AM with a service starting at 11:00 AM. There will be a reception to follow at the church hall. Fond memories and words of condolences may be expressed at www.OursoFH.com