Russell "Smokey" Rider, Sr.

MAMOU – Funeral services will be held at a 2:00 PM Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Mamou for Russell “Smokey” Wayne Rider, Sr., 71, who passed away Saturday, May 22, 2021 in Baton Rouge.

Father Billy Massie, pastor of St. Ann’s, will be celebrant of the Mass and will conduct funeral services.

Burial will take place in the Turkey Creek Cemetery.

Russell “Smokey” Wayne Rider was born in Ville Platte to Maxille and Eva Rider on November 9, 1949. He resided in Evangeline Parish having lived in Turkey Creek, Ville Platte, and Mamou. Russell worked in the oil fields of South Louisiana and afterward was a well-known butcher. He always had a smile on his face and a laugh in his heart, which he shared continually with others. Russell always had a joke to tell that would make you laugh and brighten your day; he could hold a conversation with anyone. Russell was a “true Cajun” and loved being outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping especially with his family, who he loved immensely. Russell enjoyed having a cold beer while listening to the Oldie Goldies on KVPI and KBON radio stations. His family and friends will always remember this great man and his favorite saying “you didn’t call 911 you called 9/16” which will bring a smile to their face and joy to their heart.

Smokey is survived by his son, Russell Hugh Rider, Jr. of Ville Platte; two daughters, Susan Rider and Tonya Rider, both of Mamou; five grandchildren, Christopher Rider, Ryan Rider, Johnathon Fusilier, Stephen Bourgeois, and Ian Bourgeois; great granddaughter, Harley Rider; and brother, Jimmy James Rider of Texas.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Irene Messer Rider; parents, Maxille and Eva Rider; and brother Richard Rider.

The family request that a visitation be held on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 beginning at 11:00 AM until 8:00 PM. Visitation will continue on Wednesday from 8:00 AM

until time of service. A rosery will be recited in his honor Tuesday evening at 6:00 PM and will be led by Deacon Chuck Ortego.

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

Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Mamou is in charge of arrangements