Jessie "Paul" Bellard

“

He was extremely innovative; if something was broken, he could turn it into something useful again.

Jessie “Paul” Bellard, known to so many simply as Paul, passed away on September 13, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on May 14, 1939, he lived a long life marked by hard work, laughter, devotion to family, and a gift for making both people and things better than he found them.

Paul built his life with his hands and his heart. He was a welder for 10 years before going on to own Paul’s Upholstery Shop for more than 26 years, a reflection of both his skill and his determination. He was extremely innovative; if something was broken, he could turn it into something useful again, even if the "new" item was in no way related to the original item. That practical creativity was part of who he was, as natural to him as his steady work ethic and the pride he took in providing for those he loved.

He also knew how to fill life with joy. Paul had a big sense of humor and liked to tell jokes, bringing smiles wherever he went. He enjoyed camping, football, and motorcycles, and he created memories that will remain vivid to all who knew him. Holidays were made warmer by his cooking for his children and grandchildren, and he was known for loving karaoke and dressing up like Johnny Cash, moments that surely brought laughter and delight to family gatherings. He also served as a member of the National Guard.

Of all the things Paul accomplished, nothing meant more to him than his family. He was especially proud of being married for 62 years to the love of his life, Diana, a remarkable testament to enduring love and commitment. That deep devotion shaped the life he built and the legacy he leaves behind.

“

Paul had a big sense of humor and liked to tell jokes, bringing smiles wherever he went.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Frasier Bellard. He also leaves behind his son, James Bellard; his daughters, Paula Faul and her husband Francis, and Sandra Vidrine and her husband Joe; his brother, Nathan Bellard; and his sister, Rita Pafford.

His legacy continues through his eleven grandchildren: April (Wayne), Brandy (Maurillio), Jeremy, Holly (Ryan), Bethany (Kyle), Sharon (Dustin), Jessica (Web), Sami (Jo), Michaela (Cameron), Eric (Kayla), and Brent (Brittney). He is also survived by twenty-six great-grandchildren: Amber, Autumn, Noah, Shayla, Hayden, Rilynn, Hunter, Addie, Kathryn, Caroline, Ben, Briley, Ruby, Noah, Levi, Isla, Hux, Lincoln, Teddy, Lennon, Ollie, Ellis, Brody, Brooklyn, Briley, and Brielle; and one great grandchild on the way. In the love of this large and growing family, the measure of his life can be clearly seen.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Luna Bolfa; his father, Renise Bellard; his mother, Annie Johnson Schexnayder; his brothers, Brennon Bellard, John Bellard, and Bobby Bellard; and his great-grandchildren, Austin, Branson, and Asa.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Quirk & Son Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Quirk & Son Chapel, with Reverend Travis Turner officiating. Burial will take place at Saint Paul Cemetery, corner of Hwy 190 and South 12th Street, Eunice, Louisiana.

Jessie “Paul” Bellard will be remembered as a man who worked hard, loved deeply, laughed easily, and gave his family memories that will endure for generations. In the stories told around tables, in holiday meals, in songs sung with a smile, and in the strength of the family he cherished, his life will continue to be felt.