Carol Ann Lavigne

Carol Ann Braud Lavigne, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Gonzales, Louisiana, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the age of 81, surrounded by her family and friends. Born on July 16, 1943, to Hudgens Braud Sr. and Zoe LeBlanc Braud, Carol was a breath of fresh air to everyone who knew her—an unmistakably bright, joyful light in the lives of so many. She was quick-witted, effortlessly funny, and always ready with a comeback or a laugh. Her warmth and energy were contagious, and she never missed a chance to bring joy to others. She danced like no one was watching, loved with her whole heart, and truly never met a stranger. If you knew Carol, you never forgot her. She poured herself into the people she loved. Whether she was traveling with family and friends, or cheering from the stands at every ball game her children and grandchildren played, Carol showed up—loud, proud, and present. Her devotion was steady, her love unmistakable, and her presence nothing short of a gift. Carol is survived by her children, Daria Haydel (Billy), Charles “Chuck” Lavigne (Cynthia), Wendy Fenley (Jerry), and David Lavigne (Stacy); her grandchildren, Chelsea Haydel (Clint), Hayden Fenley (Brooke), Chaz Haydel (Ashton), Celeste Ducote (Dylan), Kailee and Ashtyn Lavigne, Kyron and Koby Lavigne; and nine great-grandchildren, Cole, Caroline, Camille, and Chandler Haydel, Charlee and Carsyn Fenley, Beckham Haydel, and Griffen and Greyson Ducote, who were the pride and joy of her life. She is also survived by her brother, Hudgens Braud Jr. (Shirley) and a special niece, Donna Bourque. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Fred “Bruce” Lavigne; her parents, Hudgens Braud Sr. and Zoe LeBlanc Braud; and her sisters, Jenell Braud Bourque and Evelyn “Bubbie” Banker. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at St. Theresa of Avila Catholic Church in Gonzales beginning at 8:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. The burial will take place immediately following at Hope Haven Mausoleum. The Pallbearers will be Billy Haydel, Jerry Fenley, Hayden Fenley, Chaz Haydel, Clint Haydel, and Dylan Ducote. Following the burial, family and friends are invited to a reception at Ourso Funeral Home to continue celebrating Carol’s life and the many memories she helped create. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Donna Bourque and Clarity Hospice, especially Charlie, Terri, Kimberly and Stephanie, for their exceptional care and compassion. Carol leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and light—and a family who will carry her beautiful spirit forward forever.