Erray Manuel

VILLE PLATTE -  Erray Archange Manuel passed away on Friday, March 3, 2023 in Ville Platte at the age of 94.  A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Our Lady Queen of All Saints Catholic Church in Ville Platte. A reception for family and friends will follow at Our Lady Queen of All Saints Family Life Center.  After the reception, interment  will take place in the Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Erray Archange Manuel was born in Ville Platte, Louisiana on December 4, 1928, to Sicfroy Manuel and Alida Veillon Manuel and was one of eleven children.  Erray proudly served his country in the United States Navy.  He graduated from LSU with a master’s degree in agriculture then worked for the federal government as an agriculture agent. His work took him to many corners of the world, helping with agricultural problems and issues.  Erray loved spending time with family and was affectionately referred to as the “Super Uncle.” He enjoyed life to its fullest and was known by many as the “most handsome man to ever walk the streets of Chataignier”; he even had a plaque to prove it!  After retirement, he returned to Ville Platte, enjoying friends and family, especially Judge John D. Saunders, his dear nephew.  Erray will be greatly missed by many; his memory will live on in their hearts forever.

Erray is survived by two nieces, Alida Manuel Lorio of Terlingua, Texas and Melanie Manuel Vidrine of Ville Platte; one nephew, David Manuel of Houston, Texas; and numerous great nieces and nephews spanning four generations.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Hazel L. Manuel; parents, Sicfroy and Alida Veillon Manuel; five sisters; and five brothers.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Our Lady Queen of All Saints Catholic Church or a charity of choice.

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

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