Carmelita David Formby

Opelousas-A Memorial Mass for Ms. Carmelita David Formby will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 18, 2025, in Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Opelousas, Louisiana. Rite of Committal and inurnment will follow at Bellevue Memorial Park in Opelousas, Louisiana.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. in the church. A Rosary service will be held at 9:30 a.m. in the church followed by the Mass.

Carmelita David Formby, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2024, in Spring, Texas at the age of 81. Born August 17, 1943, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Carmelita spent a significant part of her life in Opelousas, where she became a cherished member of the community. She also lived in Plaquemine for 16 years previously. She moved to Texas, where she resided in a vibrant 55 plus community near her daughter for the last four years of her life.

Carmelita dedicated 28 fulfilling years of her professional life to Our Lady of Prompt Succor Nursing Facility and C'est La Vie Independent Living Center in Opelousas, Louisiana, proudly serving the residents and earning their affection and respect. Her compassion and dedication to others defined her career and left a lasting impact on all whom she encountered.

A graduate of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception High School, Carmelita cherished education and personal growth throughout her life. She was a devout Catholic, prayed the Rosary and attended Mass regularly. She was a longtime parishioner of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Opelousas, Louisiana.

Beyond her professional pursuits, she possessed a passion for travel, exploring vibrant locales and creating cherished memories with her loved ones. Notable trips included visiting Napa Valley with her sister, Jackie to visit Erika in San Jose, California, journeys to London with Kyle and Keith, and delightful cruises to Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, and St. Thomas. She particularly relished the joyous celebrations of Mardi Gras in New Orleans alongside Kyle and Keith.

Beyond her professional achievements, Carmelita was an extraordinary cook, celebrated for her culinary skills which brought family and friends together around the dinner table. She had a zest for life, evident in her love for dancing, where she could be seen effortlessly moving to the rhythm, sharing joy through her every step.

Carmelita cherished reminiscing about her childhood memories spent on a farm where she grew up with her loving family. Her heart held a special place for her older sister, Jackie who was not only her sibling but also her partner in crime. Together, they created countless memories that would last a lifetime. She fondly remembered her brother, Ronald who patiently taught her to navigate the challenges of driving a stick shift, and she relished the tales filled with adventure and laughter from those formative years, including humorous stories involving her pet bull, Joe and her goat, Goat.

Carmelita's vibrant personality shone through in her numerous hobbies and interests during retirement. She found joy in exercise classes, attending church services with her friends, participating in community activities, and enjoying sunny afternoons by the pool with margaritas. She held dear the lunches spent with Erika, Guy, and their circle of friends, which included Brian, Theresa, Susan, and Catherine—each of whom cherished her deeply.

Above all her accomplishments, Carmelita held her role as a mother in the highest regard. She lovingly raised her children, Erika and Kyle, instilling in them the values of unconditional love and support. Furthermore, her heart was full of love for her nieces and nephews, whom she treated like her own children: Kim, Richard, Donnie, Brent, Channy, Ronnie, and Greg. Her legacy of love and dedication to family will remain an enduring source of inspiration to all who knew her.

Carmelita leaves behind a treasure trove of memories that will be forever etched in the hearts of those she touched. Her kindness, zest for life, and unwavering commitment to her family and friends will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

She is survived by her daughter, Erika Jones and husband, Guy of Spring, TX; and by her son, Kyle Formby and partner, Keith Bartlett of New Orleans, LA; Surviving best friends- Donald Bordelon, Lee & Wendell Worley, and Mammie Lois David Steckler, and Sally Thompson.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Andrew "Polite" Hypolite David and Maggie Rose Devillier David; and her siblings, Ronald David, Charlotte "Jackie" David Bordelon, and Rose David.

Carmelita leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories woven through the lives she touched and the love she shared. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the fortune of knowing this remarkable lady. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who strive to embody her kindness, compassion, and love for life.

Family and friends are invited to visit our website at www.lafondardoin.com.

LaFond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA 70570, (337) 942-2638, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.