Benjamin R. Fontenot

Benjamin R. Fontenot, 91, of Ville Platte passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, July 20, 2023. He was born on April 7, 1932, in Pine Prairie to the late Frank and Alizor Fontenot Guillory. In 1953 Benjamin joined the United States Army and was sent to Alaska for his duty station. After being discharged from the Army he went to work on the pipeline until retirement. Once retired he was free to enjoy the things he loved and could be found tending his garden and chickens, as well as fishing. Everyone knew him for his garden, especially his cucumbers.

He was preceded in death by his by his wife, Mary Rella Smith Fontenot; father, Frank Fontenot; mother, Alizor Fontenot Guillory; and stepfather, Arcille Guillory.

Survivors include his sons, Carl Fontenot of Ville Platte and Daniel Fontenot of Belaire Cove; daughter, Darlene Fontenot Swartz and her husband, John of Mamou; 10 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren.

At the request of the family, visitation on Monday, July 24, 2023, at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Ville Platte from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM. A rosary will be recited at 6:00 PM. Visitation will resume at 8:00 AM until 9:30AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at Our Lady Queen of All Saint Catholic Church in Ville Platte followed by burial at MB Fontenot Cemetery. 

Family and friends may leave their condolences at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com

Ardoin’s Funeral Home of Ville Platte is in charge of arrangements.