Arnold Paul LeBlanc, age 88, passed away peacefully at his residence on Thursday, May 16, 2024. He was born on September 2, 1935, in Iberia Parish, to the late Delino and Celima Comeaux LeBlanc. Arnold was one of seven children born to that loving union.
A dedicated patriot, Arnold served his country honorably during the Korean Conflict as a member of the United States Army, and continued his service for six years in the reserve. Beyond his military duties, Arnold was an outstanding member of his community, dedicating 35 years of his life as a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Delcambre.
Professionally, Arnold demonstrated his skilled craftsmanship as an electrician, contributing his talents to various endeavors including the Diamond Crystal Salt Mine for 25 years, James L Gray, Mitchell Oil, and Evangeline Funeral Home.
Deeply devout, Arnold found solace and community in his faith as a member of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, where he served alongside his fellow brothers in the Knights of Columbus, St. Augustine, and American Legion.
Arnold's zest for life extended to the great outdoors, where he found joy in horseback riding, hunting, fishing, and the simple pleasure of cutting grass with his beloved Kubota tractor. But perhaps his most cherished moments were spent alongside his wife Earline, with whom he shared many years of camping adventures. Together with dear friends, they delighted in cooking, savoring meals, and engaging in spirited games of Bouree'.
An avid sports enthusiast, Arnold could often be found cheering on his favorite teams, but his greatest pride and joy were his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a devoted presence at all of their activities, reveling in their achievements and sharing in their triumphs.
Arnold will be remembered not only for his remarkable service to his country and community but also as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His warm heart and kind spirit touched the lives of many. Among his simple pleasures, Arnold had a sweet tooth and delighted in indulging in treats of all kinds, spreading joy with every shared moment.
Those left behind to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 67 years, Earline Renard LeBlanc; his three children, Edrick LeBlanc and wife Sheila; Darlene L. Broussard and husband Robbie and Drake LeBlanc; five grandchildren, Kimberly Mason and husband Jarad; Brittlyn Zagar and husband Zane; Payton Dugas and husband Jacob; Averi leBlanc and Eli LeBlanc; six great-grandchildren, Tallon Guiberteau, Tucker Zagar, Aubrey Zagar, Olivia Mason, Andrew Mason and AnnaMarie Gary and one brother, Orien LeBlanc, Sr. and wife Diane.
Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his twin brother, Reynold LeBlanc; brothers, Dorance LeBlanc, Reles LeBlanc, and Elridge LeBlanc; one sister, Lorraine L. Duhon and one grandson, Devon P. LeBlanc.
The family will receive guests on Monday from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm. A rosary will be prayed at 6:00 pm on Monday. The funeral home will reopen on Tuesday at 8:00 am until 1:30 pm.
A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Arnold’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 2:00 pm at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, with Fr. Buddy Breaux officiating. Darlene L. Broussard and Payton L. Dugas will serve as readers and Kimberly L. Mason, Brittlyn L. Zagar, Averi LeBlanc, Olivia Mason, Aubrey Zagar and AnnaMarie Gary will bring up the offerings.
Following the mass, Arnold will be laid to rest at Our Lady of the Lake Mausoleum with Military Honors.
Serving as pallbearers will be Jarad Mason, Eli LeBlanc, Robbie Broussard, Tallon Guiberteau, Zane Zagar and Tucker Zagar. Jacob Dugas, Andrew Mason, David LeBlanc, Walter LeBlanc and Orien LeBlanc, Sr. will be honorary pallbearers.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all of the staff of Heart of Hospice.
Please visit Arnold’s memorial page at www.evangelinefuneralhome.com to share memories and preview the movie presentation.
Evangeline Funeral Home of Delcambre is in charge of arrangements.