Donald Joseph Estillette

Donald Joseph Estillette, 76, of Eunice, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2026, at The Calcutta House. His ashes will be interred at the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Jennings, La. at a later date.

Born on April 14, 1950, in Eunice, Louisiana, Donald lived a life centered on faith, family, service, and compassion. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and remained devoted to his fellow veterans throughout his life, faithfully serving as Chaplain of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) for many years.

Donald found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved fishing, listening to Swamp Pop music, and spending time with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, Uncle, and friend whose quiet strength, wisdom, and kindness touched many lives.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Geraldine Fruge; his children, Shane Estillette; Casey Fruge and wife, Kami; Tracey Fruge and fiancée, Rebecca Soileau; and Joseph “Donnie” Fruge.He also leaves behind his five beloved grandchildren, Chloe Fruge, Gaven Fruge, Walen Fruge, Lainey Fruge, and Logan Fruge; his great-granddaughter, Ryghlynne Fruge, daughter of Gaven Fruge; and a great-grandson who will be welcomed in December, through his granddaughter Chloe Fruge. 

Donald is also survived by his stepchildren, Keith Carrier (Melanie), Marlow Veillon (Joe), and Steven West (Amelia); additional step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; his brother, Murphy “Chic” Johnson and wife, Charlene; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, fellow veterans, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson Luke Estillette and Ethel Thibodeaux Estillette; his sisters, Shirley Lanclos, Betty Jane Byers, and Cathy McGee; and his stepson, Shannon Carrier.

Donald will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his faithful service to his country and fellow veterans, and the quiet kindness he showed to everyone he met. His legacy of honor, humility, faith, and devotion will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.