It is with heavy hearts that the family announces that Theresa S. B. Thomas, of Mamou, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026, at the age of 84. A Celebration of Life will take place on August 29, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Mamou at 10 AM with Pastor Adrian Thomas.

Sister Theresa S. B. Thomas was born on April 26, 1942, in Mallet, Louisiana, to the late Mary Gordan Semien and Elvin Joseph Semien. Theresa was peaceful, humble, loving, and patient. She was a dedicated homemaker for her family. Sister Theresa had a total of 16 children whom she loved, cherished, and cared for as her own. She also raised 2 of her grandchildren as her very own. Theresa lost two of her children when they were only a couple of months old, including Samanatha Wanda Bellard and James Bellard.

She leaves to cherish her memories her daughters: Carla M. Bellard of Mamou, Fredia B. Wilson (Edwine), Jacqueline Collins (Joseph), Alberta B. Jack of Eunice. Her two sons, Christopher Bellard of Mamou and Rev. Wallace Bellard Jr. (SaLinda) of Oberlin. Her godchildren: Bridgette J. Hanes, Kimberly Gauthier, Gene Autry Jason Jr., and Hilton Semien. Her son-in-law: David L. Freeman Sr. Her brothers: Merrick Semien, Harold Semien (Jessielyn), Murphy Semien (Sandra), and Elvin Semien Jr. Her sisters: Eula Mae Jason, Leola Bellard, and Ezola Dupre. She also leaves behind 30 grandchildren and 79 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Elvin Joseph Semien Sr. and Mary Pearl Semien, her daughters, Brenda Gale Gauthier, Juanita B. Freeman, and Marla B. Semien, and her sons, Jamie Bellard and Cedric Lynn Bellard. She is also reunited with three brothers, four sisters, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

At the family's request, a visitation will take place on August 29, 2026, at Word of Faith Church from 8 AM until services. Burial will follow at Bieber Cemetery.

Family and friends may view this obituary and sign the guestbook at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com.

Ardoin's Funeral Home of Mamou, 717 6th Street, (337) 468-5231, is in charge of arrangements.