On Thursday, June 4, 2026, as the evening sky shined with stars in the heavens above, our dear Kathleen "Kathy" Latiolais gently closed her eyes to this earthly life and entered into her eternal glory. She was 67 years old. Kathy, as she was lovingly called, was born on October 10, 1958, in New Iberia to the late Larry DeRouen and the late Anna Mae Badeaux.
A devoted homemaker, Kathy took great pride in keeping her home neat, organized, and welcoming. She cherished her possessions and preferred everything to remain exactly where she placed it—unless, of course, someone wanted to hear about moving them. Her home was a reflection of the love and care she poured into everything she did.
Kathy was also an exceptional cook whose greatest pleasure was gathering family around her table. Her famous sticky chicken and shrimp and okra gumbo became beloved family favorites that warmed both the stomach and the soul. Her passion for cooking extended beyond her home through her former restaurant, T's Country Kitchen. With locations in Delcambre and Coteau, Kathy shared her treasured recipes with countless patrons who always left satisfied and smiling.
Among her many enjoyments were playing pool, visiting the casino, and spending time with those she loved. An avid pool player, Kathy was a proud member of the American Poolplayers Association. As team captain, she led her teammates in local tournaments and even traveled to Las Vegas to compete in national championships. Whether they brought home trophies or not, Kathy treasured the friendships, laughter, and camaraderie shared along the way.
The casino was another favorite pastime. Whenever Kathy was ready for a trip to her favorite destination, St. Martin Truck Stop Casino, she would send a simple text message to Dena that read, "Ding Ding Ding"—her unmistakable code for casino time. While she certainly hoped to win, the true reward was spending time with Dena and their friends, making memories and enjoying life's simple pleasures.
Above all else, Kathy treasured her family. She often traveled to Mississippi to spend precious time with her granddaughter and great-grandchildren, delighting in every opportunity to spoil her babies. Yet the relationship she cherished most was the special bond she shared with her daughter, Dena. Self-described as partners in crime and casino buddies, the two were rarely seen apart. Their friendship was as strong as their love for one another, and every moment spent together was a gift they both treasured.
Although our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in knowing Kathy is no longer burdened by pain or sorrow. We rejoice in the promise that one day we will be reunited with her in the heavenly kingdom. Our beloved Kathy, may your soul and the souls of all the faithfully departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. We love you and will carry your memory in our hearts forever.
Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Dena DeBlanc (Phillip); daughter-in-law, Christine Arcemont (Nickey); her grandchildren, Spring Crisp (Darren), Tyten DeBlanc, Trenton DeBlanc, Jeremy Standridge, Jr. (Kelsey), and Jared Standridge; her great-grandchildren, Ella Crisp, Tripp Crisp, Kamden DeBlanc, and Jensyn Standridge; her sisters, Ashley Toups and husband Randy, and Connie Delcambre and husband Timmy; her lifelong friend, Chris Meche; her mother-in-law, Shirley Monceaux; her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Sherry Brasseaux (Gary), Terry Latiolais (Bonnie), and Scotty Latiolais; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly.
Along with her parents, Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Tony Latiolais; her son, Brian "Tattoo" DeBlanc; her brothers Craig DeRouen, Wilton Smith and Adam Smith, Jr.; Cousin, Marie Badeaux; and her loving dogs, Charlie Brown, Daisy Mae and Brody Ray.
Funeral services celebrating Kathy's life will be held at Evangeline Funeral Home on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Deacon Patrick Burke will officiate. Following the service, Kathy will be laid to rest in Our Lady of the Lake Cemetery.
A gathering of family and friends will be held at the funeral home on Monday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services, with the recitation of the Rosary at 11:00 a.m.
Serving as pallbearers are Jeremy Standridge, Jr., Jared Standridge, Trenton DeBlanc, Randy Toups, Darren Crisp, and Phillip LaChausse. Honorary pallbearers are Chris Meche, Brandon Sons, Dilion Sons, and Tyten DeBlanc.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Acadiana and Kathy's oncology team at Our Lady of Lourdes for the compassionate care, kindness, and support shown throughout her journey. Your dedication and concern will never be forgotten.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences by visiting Kathy's memorial page at www.evangelinedelcambre.com.
Evangeline Funeral Home of Delcambre is honored to serve the Latiolais family.
