Barbara Dupre James

Barbara Dupre James passed away on Monday, August 11, 2025, in Mamou, Louisiana, at the age of 84. She was born on Saturday, June 14, 1941, in Pine Point, Louisiana, and was a beloved member of the Mamou community, known for her unwavering dedication to her faith and her profound love for serving others. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Ann Catholic Church in Mamou on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Entombment will follow in the New St. Ann Mausoleum with Father Billy Massie officiating services.

Throughout her distinguished 33-year career at Cleco, Barbara began as a clerk and rose to become a call center specialist, leaving a legacy of professionalism and commitment in the local office in Mamou. In addition to her work at Cleco, she also touched the lives of many as a substitute teacher, sharing her knowledge and kindness with countless students.

Barbara was deeply committed to her faith and took pride in serving the Lord in various capacities. A dedicated lay Carmelite minister in Eunice, Barbara was an active member of Saint Ann's Catholic Daughters, served as a Eucharistic minister, and was a church lector. Her involvement in the community extended to when she served in the role of President of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA).

Barbara had a passion for genealogy and spent many hours researching the Dupre family history, cherishing the connections to her roots. She also volunteered her time at Savoy Care Center and Savoy Hospital, where her compassion knew no bounds. She found her greatest joy in helping others, exemplifying the values she instilled in her family.

Barbara's proudest accomplishments were her contributions to her family, nurturing an environment conducive to her Catholic faith. She leaves behind her son, Stephen G. Fontenot (Rose); her two granddaughters, Ashley Hornsby (Matt) and Stephanie Perry (Clay); great-grandchildren Brynlee and Brady Perry and Peyton, Cooper, and Hayes Hornsby; and numerous family members including her nephew, Chris Dupre (Donna).

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Robert L. James; her parents, Wallace and Ena Roy Dupre; and her brother, Jasper Dupre.

Barbara's memory will be honored during a visitation at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Mamou, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and again on Thursday, August 14, 2025 beginning at 8:00 AM until time of service. A rosary will be recited on Wednesday at 6:00 PM.

As we remember Barbara Dupre James, we celebrate a life devoted to faith, family, and service, one that will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.

Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Mamou has been entrusted with arrangements and invites family and friends to leave condolences and fond memories of Barbara at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com.