Dennis James Decuir

Dennis James Decuir, 81, was born on April 18, 1945, in New Iberia, LA, to his late parents Dennis (Dan) and Vivian Decuir. In homage to his father, he was endearingly known as Danky. After graduating from Loreauville High School in 1964, he moved to Texas at the age of 19, where he built his life in Port Acres. On August 28, 2026, Danky passed peacefully, surrounded by family while he made his Cajun waltz into the gates of Heaven.

He is survived by his devoted partner, Lillian (Sam) Lee; his son, Lanny, his daughter-in-law of 26 years, Gina, and their daughter, Anika; his daughter and favorite son-in-law, Ashlee and Khris, and their children, Keegan and Aubree; his brother and sister-in-law, Clyde and Irene, and their children, Denise, John, and David; and his Toutcheque sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Many knew Danky as a kind and easygoing spirit who never had a poor word to say about anyone. He worked as a crane operator for 50 years and lived a humble life in which he used his Cajun ingenuity to tinker, fix, and restore anything he felt was worthy.

Making the most of retirement, he continued to exercise, pick pecans, feed the birds, create beautiful walking sticks, and visit with anyone who called or crossed his path. Showing his concern for everyone's well-being, he made sure we had what we needed and always had time for us. PawPaw took the time to write cards and send gifts in the mail to his grandkids for every holiday to give them a little something and let them know that he cared.

He enjoyed every moment of life, loving, caring for, and dancing with his beloved "Sam." They won their first dance competition starting with 25 couples in about 1999 at MacKenzie’s Pub in Beaumont by process of elimination. In 2003, a 1st place trophy was earned for the Cajun Waltz hosted by the Cajun Heritage Festival in Port Arthur. A 1st place trophy was earned in 2016 for the Jitterbug sponsored by the Service League of Port Arthur. Lucky #4 was worn for both trophies earned.

He was a simple kind of man who found happiness in contentment and never had unreasonable expectations of others. His grandkids remember PawPaw always coming to the rescue to fix things, giving so generously, and laughing that distinct laugh that he had.

His children will host a Celebration of Life to honor their Daddy, and details will be shared soon.

Honoring his wishes, a graveside gathering will be held for family at a later date when Danky will be returned to his mother and father for entombment in Loreauville, LA.

Danky has been a long-time loyal supporter of many worthy causes. In lieu of flowers, please choose one of these organizations to donate and keep his generous heart alive:

American Cancer Society

Disabled Veterans National Foundation Inc.

Little Flower Catholic Church

March of Dimes

Paralyzed Veterans of America

Shriners Hospitals for Children

Southeast Texas Food Bank

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Veteran of Foreign Wars

Wounded Warrior Project