Sedonia Marcantel, a cherished mother, wife, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on April 21, 2025, in Port Arthur, Texas. Born on February 25, 1926, to Emilie and Otis P. Meaux in Kaplan, Louisiana, Sedonia—affectionately known as "Sed"—lived a life full of grace, strength, and devotion to those she loved.
During World War II, Sedonia moved to Port Arthur, where she found work at the Texaco refinery. It was there she met the love of her life, Leo Marcantel, a fellow Louisiana native who had recently returned from military service. Their marriage became a lasting testament to love, resilience, and partnership.
Sedonia dedicated her professional life to caring for others as a Certified Medical Assistant, working with great compassion and commitment until her retirement at the remarkable age of 80. Beyond her career, she was a vibrant presence in her community as an active member of St. Joseph’s Altar Society and a regular volunteer at the Medical Center of Southeast Texas. Her kind heart and giving spirit touched countless lives.
A true Cajun cook at heart, Sedonia brought her family together with unforgettable Sunday dinners and lovingly prepared meals. Her talent for sewing was equally treasured, she lovingly crafted clothes and prom dresses that will forever be part of her family’s memories. Even in her later years, she found joy in simple pleasures, including attending performances with her beloved CMA group at the Hobby Center in Houston.
Sedonia’s legacy continues through her three daughters: Susan Altschuler (Milton), Carla Marcantel (Lunelle Vaughan), and Lori Dockens (James). She also leaves behind her grandsons, Matthew Dockens and Jason Dockens (Kasie), and great-grandchildren, Aubrey and Jack. Her granddaughters, Adrienne Andrews and Jane Cowley (Matthew), as well as her great-grandchildren, Daniel, Nathan, and Maddie Cowley. She also leaves behind her Sister in Law Margret Meaux, and nieces and nephews who will carry forward her memory with love.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leo; her daughter, Janet Andrews; her granddaughter, Ashley Auzenne; and three great-grandchildren: Parrish, Eleanor, and Lincoln. Sedonia is survived by her brother, Robert Meaux (Sandra) of Jacksonville, Florida, and was predeceased by her siblings Pierre, Alvin, Joseph, and Clifford Meaux, as well as Gloria Lacobie and Annette Leboeuf.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Bonne Vie, especially her devoted nurses Audrina and Connie, and the caregivers from Heart to Heart Hospice.
Sedonia’s life was a beacon of warmth, generosity, and love, a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A funeral service will be held at Grammier-Oberle Funeral Home on Friday, April 25 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation on Thursday, April 24 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in her memory.
Sedonia will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Memorial Park, 3900 Twin City Highway, Groves, TX.
