Ruth Ellin Thibodeaux Fontenot

Ruth Ellin Thibodeaux Fontenot, born August 15, 1943 in Chataignier, passed away on May 6, 2026 surrounded by family members, and moments after grandchild, Beth, reminisced childhood memories and sang Amazing Grace. A member of New Life Assembly of God in Ville Platte, Ruth’s church family held a special place in her heart.

She loved the Lord and served him in the capacity as wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend to all. Her gift was the gift of hospitality taking into her home different family members at difficult times in their lives. Her most favorite activity was cooking and she was the best. Her family will remember those special meals, and that she also could sing any song, even requesting she sing as recently as a few days before her passing.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene "Gene" Fontenot of 62 years, her daughter, Vickie Marcantel; her parents, Abraham and Effie Thibodeaux; her sister, Dorothy Thibodeaux; as well as her sister-in-law, Helen Thibodeaux, and brother-in-law, David Loehr, and three young nephews: Tony Thibodeaux, Coby Thibodeaux and Nicholas Ardoin.

Ruth is survived by daughter Cindy Conner (John) of Eunice and son, Robbie David Fontenot of Ville Platte. Also surviving Ruth: her brother, Louis Thibodeaux of Ville Platte and two sisters, Linda Loehr of Eunice and Mathilda Guillory (John) of Mamou; and her son-in-law, Danzel Marcantel, Jr. Her memory and spirit will live on through her 8 grandchildren : Beth Reed, Kristy Thibodeaux (Jonathon), Trey Marcantel (Amelia), Aimee Arnold (Austin), Logan Marcantel (Chad Greer), Lindsay Conner Ali (Jawad), Zacarie Fontenot and Jeremie Fontenot; 10 great-grandchildren: Kaygun, Kaelyn, Blayklee, A'nah, Ainsley, Layne, Conner, Alice, Aisha Ruth, and Kamilla, and one great-great grandchild, Oliver.

A small memorial ceremony will be held at a later date.

Ruth’s life was a beacon of love, resilience, and dedication to her family and community. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the impact she made on those she loved will endure for generations to come. Her memory remains a cherished blessing, inspiring strength and compassion in the hearts of all who knew her.