Mary Elaine Whittington

Mary Elaine Whittington, lovingly known as “Mudder” to the many who knew and loved her, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 7, 2026 at the age of 99.  

Born on August 5, 1927 in Bayou Chicot, Elaine married her beloved husband, Delmont Whittington in 1948, and together they had three beautiful daughters. She took great pride in the family they created. She lived a long and beautiful life devoted to her family, her faith, her work, and the many people fortunate enough to cross her path.  Elaine was a nurse for more than 60 years, continuing to care for others until the age of 80.  Caring for people was not simply her profession—it was who she was. 

Throughout her life, she had a special way of making people feel loved, welcomed, and cared for. She opened her heart and her home to those who needed a loving mother or grandmother figure, and there was always room at her table for one more.  Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was an active and devoted member of Bayou Chicot Methodist Church. She found joy in serving her church and in the fellowship of the people she loved there.  

Elaine had a green thumb and a love for the outdoors that was evident in the beautiful yard and flowers she cared for. She could grow just about anything, and she took great pride in her garden.  She maintained her large yard well into her 80s, filling it with flowers and life. Her garden was a reflection of her—beautiful, hardworking, and always giving something to others. She also loved her dog, Lucy, who was a cherished companion.

  An avid reader, she could often be found with a book in her hands. She remained curious and engaged throughout her life, always finding something new to read, learn, or enjoy.  Above all, Elaine cherished her family and loved Delmont dearly. 

She is survived by her daughters, Darlene, Sherry, and Jennifer; her grandchildren, Shelly, Misty, Alan, and Brooke; her great-grandchildren, Jordan, Gavin, Kade, Payton and Davis; and her great-great-grandson, Dean, along with many other loving family members and friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, John Edward and Della Griffith Compton, her beloved husband, Delmont, and her sister, Juanita Mason. She is survived by her brother, Gary Compton, and her three daughters. 

Those who knew Elaine will remember her not only for the many years she lived, but for the many lives she touched during those years. She was a caregiver by profession, but a caregiver by nature. She loved deeply, worked hard, welcomed people in, fed them well, tended her flowers, opened her home, and made people feel like family. Ninety-nine years is a remarkable life, but for those who loved Elaine, it will never have been long enough. Her legacy lives on in the family she loved, the people she cared for, the flowers she planted, the meals she prepared, and the countless lives she made a little better simply by being in them. 

 A celebration of Elaine’s life will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 11:00 am at Bayou Chicot United Methodist Church, Highway 106, Bayou Chicot. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am and extend until the service. Following services Elaine will be laid to rest in the Ferguson Cemetery. 

 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Elaine’s memory to her beloved church, Bayou Chicot United Methodist Church, in care of Mr. Bennie Helmer, 1042 Dossman Lake Road, Saint Landry, LA 71367.  

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Southern Grace Hospice, especially Pam and Michelle, for the love and care given to Elaine during her final days.  Elaine will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered as our Mudder.

Ardoin's Funeral Home in Ville Platte is in charge of arrangements and invites friends and loved ones to leave their condolences at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com.