Merzie Laughlin

Merzie Laughlin was born on Saturday, May 5, 1934 in Mamou, Louisiana, where she spent many years living a life centered on hard work, family, and love. Merzie passed away on Friday, March 27, 2026 at the age of 91. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM at St. Ann Catholic Church in Mamou. Rite of committal will follow in the New St. Ann Cemetery with Father Billy Massie officiating services.

Merzie was known for her strong work ethic. She worked as a manager at the Five and Dime in Mamou, at Savoy Hospital Cafeteria, and also as a sitter for the elderly. Beyond her work, she found joy in caring for her home and family. Merzie had a special gift for gardening, cultivating beautiful flower beds filled with roses, and keeping an immaculate yard that reflected the pride and care she took in anything she did. She also enjoyed camping with the Good Sam’s Club, creating lasting memories with family and friends. Serving as a powerful example of strength and resilience, Merzie and her husband instilled the value of hard work and perseverance in their children.

Merzie will be remembered as a strong, loving woman whose life touched many. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Left behind to cherish her memory are her loving children: sons, Gerald Laughlin and wife, Lanie of DeRidder and Oran Laughlin, Jr. and wife, Deeann of Lafayette, and daughter, Patricia Ledoux of Youngsville. Merzie's legacy continues through her eight grandchildren: Jason Laughlin, Lana Laughlin, Karson Laughlin, Brandie Thibodeaux, Trisha Landry, Travis Laughlin, Richelle Laughlin, and Brett Laughlin, along with numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Gladie Maris of Jennings, and her beloved fur baby, Ginger.

She is reunited in heaven with her husband, Oran Laughlin Sr.; parents, Milton Israel and Louisa McGee Israel; son, Harold Laughlin; grandson, Chuck Laughlin; brothers, Lawood, Hampton, Cline, and Calvin Israel; sister, Pearl Murphy, mother-in-law, Josephine Laughlin; and father-in-law, Odess Laughlin.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Visitation will continue on Wednesday, April1 at 10:00 AM until dismissal time for Mass. A rosary will be recited on Tuesday at 6:00 PM.

Family and friends may leave condolences for the family at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com.

Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Mamou has been entrusted with arrangements.