Patsy Elizabeth “Pat” Breaux, (née Smith), passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, in Welsh, Louisiana, at the age of 89, following a long battle with dementia. Born on September 8, 1936, in Monroe, Louisiana, Patsy lived a life devoted to faith, family, education, and service to others.
Pat was the daughter of Jesse Wayland Smith and Mary Anne Clayton Smith, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her first husband, R.L. “Bob” Hayes; and her siblings, James “Jim” Smith, Roy Smith, and Sarah Rodgers.
She is survived by her loving husband, Ophie Michael Breaux of Welsh; her sons, Robert L. Hayes Jr. and wife Yolanda Hayes of La Porte, Texas, and Jason Elliot Hayes and wife Ruby Hayes of Jacksonville, Florida; and her cherished grandchildren, Patrick Hayes, Jessica Hayes, and Jennifer Hayes.
A graduate of Oak Grove High School, Pat continued her education at Louisiana Tech University and McNeese State University, where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education. She dedicated more than 30 years of her life to Welsh Elementary School, where she taught fifth grade and special needs education. Through her compassion, patience, and dedication, she left a lasting impression on generations of students and families throughout the Welsh community.
Pat was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Welsh, where she served for many years as an adult Sunday School teacher. Her unwavering faith guided every aspect of her life and was reflected in the kindness and grace she extended to everyone around her.
Outside of her professional and church life, Pat found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved cooking for her family, tending to her garden, birdwatching, and traveling. She was especially known for her delicious fried shrimp and her warm Cajun hospitality that made everyone feel at home.
To her grandchildren, she was simply “Gran,” a woman whose home was always filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Jessica lovingly recalled childhood mornings filled with coffee, boudain, king cake, and Dr. Pepper breakfasts, as well as Pat’s endless patience and unconditional love. Whether proudly displaying faded family photographs throughout her home or embracing her grandchildren in long, tight hugs, Pat made those she loved feel deeply cherished.
Her family shared that although dementia slowly changed the woman they knew, her love for them never faded. They take comfort in knowing she is now at peace.
Pat’s family would also like to express heartfelt gratitude to those who lovingly cared for her throughout her illness, especially her devoted husband Ophie, who faithfully remained by her side through the most difficult years; her sons and daughters-in-law; and her many caregivers, including Charlene Kyeer, whose compassion and support extended her quality of life far beyond what would have been possible alone.
Pat will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, church member, neighbor, and friend. Her legacy of kindness, resilience, faith, and selflessness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
The family will welcome the public for visitation on Sunday, May 17, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Welsh, from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm, followed by funeral services at 3:00 pm. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery.
