Archille Vidrine, Jr.

Archille Vidrine Jr., a lifelong resident of Ville Platte, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, at the age of 86. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church officiated by Father Mitch Guidry.

Archille was born on March 20, 1940, in Grand Prairie, Louisiana to Marie Eva Vidrine and Archille Vidrine, Sr. Archille lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, faith, friendship, and a deep love for the outdoors. He was a proud graduate of Sacred Heart High School Class of 1959 and later earned a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Southern University.

In his younger years, Archille was an accomplished boxer whose determination and discipline earned him two state lightweight championships in 1954 and 1957. Following high school he continued boxing while serving his country honorably in the United States Army during his time stationed in Okinawa, Japan. In 2014 Archille was inducted into Louisiana High School Boxing Hall of Fame.

Archille began his professional career as a teacher, but with a strong desire to provide greater opportunities and security for his family, he turned his ambitions toward the oilfield industry. Through unwavering dedication, tireless work ethic, and perseverance, he rose through the ranks working offshore with Tenneco and later serving as a Senior Lead Operator with Forest Oil. Everything he accomplished was driven by his commitment to building a better future for those he loved.

While he worked hard, Archille also embraced life fully. He was an avid reader who especially enjoyed western novels and books by John Grisham. He was a proud supporter of Sacred Heart High School and treasured time spent visiting with friends over card games at the Little Brown Jug, Pommier's, and Donny's. One of Archille's greatest joys was squirrel hunting.

His family will forever remember him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, outdoorsman, and hardworking provider whose strength, determination, and love shaped generations.

He is survived by his sons, Ward Vidrine and wife Lynette, and Casey Vidrine and wife Jennifer; his daughters, Leslie Vidrine, Leah Hollier and husband Greg, and Beth Jones and husband Jason; his grandchildren, Amber Vidrine, Brandon Vidrine, Brittany Vidrine, Nick Fruge, Tyler Fruge, Jarrette Hurst, Averey Ange and husband Chris, Emma Tate and husband Brendan, Samuel Hollier and wife Elizabeth, Mia Jones, Chloe Jones, Parker Vidrine, and Emelia Vidrine; eight great-grandchildren; and his sister, Cynthia "Cindy" Vidrine. Sister in law Arlene Doucet and husband Larry.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janella Vidrine; his parents, the late Archille Vidrine Sr. and the late Mary Eva Vidrine; his brothers, Evans Vidrine and Michael Vidrine; and his sister, Emma Ruth Vidrine Buller.

Visitation will be held at Ardoin's Funeral Home beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026. A Rosary will be prayed at 10:15 a.m.

Archille will be laid to rest in the Sacred Heart Mausoleum, where military graveside services will be conducted in honor of his faithful service to his country.