Elwyn S. Fontenot

Elwyn Saucier Fontenot, a beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the age of 88 in Alexandria, Louisiana. Elwyn was born on Sunday, April 4, 1937, in Mamou, Louisiana and dedicated her life to her family and her community, embodying the true spirit of generosity and compassion. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at 11:00 AM at St. Ann Catholic Church in Mamou. Burial will follow in Ardoin Cemetery with Father Billy Massie officiating services.

Throughout her lifetime, Elwyn held many jobs; however, none were more significant to her than being a devoted housewife. She was a nurturing mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, always welcoming anyone in need, rather they be family or strangers, into her home. Her loving nature and straightforward approach made her one of the nicest people to know—a friend and confidante to many, marked by her honesty and genuine warmth.

She enjoyed many hobbies, especially raising her two beloved fur babies, Cookie and Oreo, and cooking for her children and grandchildren. Elwyn’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, having grown up in the Catholic Church. She cherished her relationship with Jesus, often concluding her prayers with the heartfelt sentiment, “Jesus, I trust in you.”

Elwyn took great pride in her role as a mother and grandmother. She is survived by her three sons, Tony Ray Haviland (Jennifer), Patrick Fontenot, and James Adam Fontenot (Danielle); four daughters, Dawna Stowers (Elizabeth), Landa Fontenot (William Lejeune), Debbie Haviland, and Brenda Richard (Rodrick); along with 33 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Rayford Saucier.

Elwyn was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph “J Y” Fontenot; her parents, Stagg and Rena Landreneau Saucier; her son, Ricky Ward Haviland; and her sister, Mildred Guillory (Johnny).

Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to resonate through the lives she touched. Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life during the visitation on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM and again on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 10:45 AM at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Mamou.  A rosary will be prayed on Monday evening at 6:00 PM.

Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Mamou is in charge of arrangements and invites family and friends to leave their condolences at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com.