Charles Levi Soileau

Washington- A Mass of Christian Burial for Charles Levi Soileau will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, December 11, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Washington.  Rev. Fr. Matthew Higginbotham will celebrate the Mass.  Rite of Committal and interment will be held at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Washington, LA.

Charles Soileau, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend passed away on December 8, 2023, at his home in Garland surrounded by his family at the age of 82. He was born on October 13, 1941, to Levy Joseph Soileau and Ophelia Morain Soileau in Waxia, Louisiana. Charles was the loving husband of Evelina Buller Soileau for 60 years.

Charles had a fulfilling career as an accountant in the gas industry. He dedicated his time and expertise to his work, starting in 1963 until his retirement in December 1999 from Centerpoint Entergy. Throughout his career, he also generously assisted many family members and friends with their taxes. After retiring, Charles embarked on a new venture by engaging in crawfish farming with his brother, Herman.  Charles proudly served his country as a US Air Force Veteran. His commitment to the military reflected his deep patriotism and love for his nation.

Education played an important role in Charles' life. He was a graduate of Washington High School where he actively participated in baseball as a member of the school's team. His love for the sport continued throughout his life.

In addition to his professional accomplishments and military service, Charles found joy in various hobbies and interests. He was an avid hunter who cherished the times spent outdoors. Charles had a green thumb and took pleasure in vegetable gardening, specifically cultivating watermelons and sweet potatoes. His fruit trees, especially the orange trees, were meticulously cared for. Cooking and BBQing for his family were amongst his favorite activities.

Charles was a past member of the Chamber of Commerce in Abbeville.  He was a dedicated parishioner at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Washington where he worshipped faithfully for many years. His devotion to Catholicism was evident through his daily recitation of the Rosary.

Charles leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories among both immediate and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, Levy Joseph Soileau and Ophelia Morain Soileau; his grandson, Charlie Nunez; his sister, Evelina Guilbeau and her husband Howard Guilbeau; two brothers, Aubrey Soileau and Herman "Lefty" Soileau; father-in-law George Buller, and mother-in-law, Rita Buller.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Evelina Buller Soileau of Garland; two sons: Tony Soileau and his wife, Amy of Garland; and Jeff Soileau and his wife, Dorothy of Garland. He will also be deeply missed by his two daughters: Yvette Soileau Howard and her husband, Benny of Washington; and Rita Soileau and her husband, Lance Nunez of Katy, Texas. Charles is survived by his brother, Bobby Soileau and his wife, Jonalyn of Beggs; and two sisters-in-law, Norma Soileau of Garland; and Rosewitha Soileau of Beggs. Charles' legacy extends through the lives of 12 grandchildren: Jason Howard and wife, Lainie; Josh Howard and wife, Whitney; Hannah Stewart and wife, Terri; Luke Soileau, Ethan Soileau, Maggie Bihm and husband, Mark; Garrett Soileau and wife, Lyna; Phillip Soileau, Logan Reppond and wife, Kim; Seth Reppond and wife, Lucy; Sophia Nunez, and Phoebe Nunez; and 5 great-grandchildren: Isaac Soileau, Khai Soileau, Isabella Howard, James Howard, and Conrad Howard. He also leaves behind a multitude of nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will fondly remember him.

Pallbearers will be Jason Howard, Josh Howard, Garrett Soileau, Phillip Soileau, Luke Soileau, and Logan Reppond.  The honorary pallbearer will be Ethan Soileau.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 11, 2023, in the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel at Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home in Opelousas from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A Rosary service will be held at 11:30 a.m. being prayed by the St. Agnes Rosary Group in the funeral home.  

Charles Levi Soileau will forever be remembered as a devoted family man, a hardworking professional, and a loyal friend. His warm personality, dedication, and love for life touched the hearts of many. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

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.