Ray Joseph Sonnier

Ray Joseph Sonnier, our loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Godfather, father-in-law and friend to so many, gently closed his eyes to this earthly life and embarked on his eternal journey. He was 90 years old.

Born on August 30, 1934, to the late Luc’ Sonnier and the late Laurence Delahoussaye Sonnier. Ray was raised in rural Vermilion Parish, where he grew up in a family steeped in Cajun heritage and a strong work ethic. From a young age, he demonstrated resilience, beginning to work at just seven years old to help support his family.

Throughout his life, Ray shared his knowledge and expertise with various oilfield companies in the Acadiana area. He later found fulfillment working for the Louisiana Department of Transportation as a bridge tender, where he dedicated over 20 years of faithful service before retiring.

Ray lived a simple yet fulfilling life, embracing the joys of the outdoors. An avid outdoorsman, he found happiness in hunting, fishing, and tending to his yard. He cherished countless weekends with family, soaking up all that nature had to offer. Although not a fan of traveling, he lovingly accompanied his wife, Joy Rita, on many trips across the United States, sharing laughter and creating lasting memories.

Ray Joseph Sonnier will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Ray leaves behind a legacy of love through his three children: Sylvia Dartez and husband Mitch, Kevin Sonnier, and Loretta "Lynn" Bonin and husband Ty. He adored his grandchildren: Angel Bonin and husband Braidon, Joshua Sonnier and wife Alyssa, Ryan Bonin and wife Kayla, Mitch Dartez and companion Alli Seaux, and Micah Bonin and wife Bailey. He was also blessed with precious great-grandchildren: Peyton Boutte, Luke Bonin, Aria Sonnier, Haislee Faulk, Jackson Sonnier, Livie Bonin, Beckham Dartez, and Briggs Derise. Additionally, Anna Benoit (his Godchild) and husband Carl held a special place in his heart, as Ray considered her as his own daughter. Also surviving Ray are brothers in law, Jerry Bourque, Gordy Bourque and Wilsie Connor; sister-in-law, Vernice Sierra; and his Godchildren, Eddie Toups, Connie Sonnier, Gerald “JJ” Bourque, Jr and Pamela Broussard.

Ray is reunited in Heaven with his beloved wife, Joy Rita Broussard Sonnier, whom the great grandchildren called “Big MawMaw”; his parents, Luc’ and Laurence Sonnier; and his siblings, Alton Sonnier, Jedeon Sonnier and wife Anna, Curtis Sonnier and wife Gail, Verna Sonnier Istre and husband Whitney, Rose Belle Sonnier Dumond and husband Elray, Isabelle Sonnier Lapointe and husband Ned; and a Godchild, Johnny Connor.

A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Ray’s life will be held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. Following the mass, Ray will be laid to rest with his wife at Holy Family Mausoleum.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Evangeline Funeral Home on Wednesday from 9:00 am until 1:30 pm, with the Men’s Rosary Group leading the recitation of the Rosary at 11:00 am.

Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Mitch Dartez, Joshua Sonnier, Ryan Bonin, Micah Bonin, Carl Benoit and Ty Bonin. Honorary pallbearers are Peyton Boutte, Luke Bonin, Jackson Sonnier, Beckham Dartez, Briggs Derise, Mitchell Dartez, Braidon Bonin and Raymond Bonin.

The Sonnier Family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Hospice of Acadiana for their care and compassion shown to Ray during their care, and a very special thank you to the wonderful Avery Island crew who were always there to offer help when needed. You are all greatly appreciated.

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

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