N. Wendell Manuel, a beloved resident of Mamou, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2026, in Jennings, Louisiana, at the age of 85. Born on Friday, November 1, 1940, in Mamou, Wedell lived a life that was marked by dedication, hard work, and a steadfast commitment to his family, community, and the land he called home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 2:00 PM at St. Ann Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the Reed Cemetery with Father Arockia Doss Palthasar officiating services.

A graduate of Mamou High School, Wendell embodied the spirit of his hometown throughout his lifetime. Following graduation, Wendell served his country with honor, spending four years in the United States Air Force. Upon returning to Mamou, Wendell became a devoted farmer, focusing his efforts on growing rice and beans. His work ethic was unwavering, and he took pride in his land,

Besides working the fields, Wendell had a deep commitment to Mamou and was very involved in his community. He served as a board member for Guarantee Bank, Tri-Parish Rice Dryer, and the Evangeline Parish Solid Waste Commission. In 1997, Wendell received the Most Outstanding Award for his dedication to the W. Cheese Read Mamou Volunteer Fire Department.

When not working, Wendell cherished simple pleasures and time spent outdoors. He found happiness camping, hunting, and especially, cooking a turtle sauce that gathered friends around the table. Those who knew him recall his enjoyment of attending weekly suppers with friends, where stories and laughter flowed generously.

Left behind to cherish Wendell’s memory are his sons, Tiqua Manuel (Mischa) and Nolan Paul Manuel; daughter, Sheila Manuel; grandchildren, Scott Manuel (Sandy), Bryce Burleigh (Autumn), Haley Guilbeaux (Dustin), Morgan Burleigh, Kinsey Briceno, and Hyde Hogan; and 13 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother, Donald K. Manuel (Donna) and his sister, Elaine Langley (Lynn).

Wendell is preceded in death by his parents, Nolan Jean and Earlie Mae Ledoux Manuel and his son, Stephen Manuel.

Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects during visitation at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Mamou on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Participating in services are the pallbearers, Dustin Guilbeaux, Scott Manuel, Bryce Burleigh, Carl Prudhomme, Collin Ramsey and Jacob Pierrotti; readers Haley Guilbeaux and Morgan Burleigh; and gift bearers, Kinsey Briceno and Hyde Hogan.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Southwest Louisiana Veteran’s Home in Jennings, with special thanks to Adam Leger and Mitch Credeur, for the professional and loving care Wendell received during his time there.

N. Wendell Manuel leaves behind a legacy of service, integrity, and quiet generosity. His influence and presence will endure in the land he cultivated, the community he strengthened, and the memories he gave so freely to those around him.

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