Belton Joseph Thibodeaux, Sr. passed away peacefully on August 6, 2023, at The Verandah Assisted Living Center in Lake Charles, La. Born on October 24, 1928, in Rayne, La., he was the son of Bilezaire Thibodeaux and Estelle Holloway Thibodeaux. Belton was predeceased by his loving wife, Tressie Richard Thibodeaux, as well as his parents, eight brothers and five sisters.

Belton’s life was one of dedication and service. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and later worked as a Merchant Seaman. Settling in Lake Charles in 1948, he became an integral part of the community. Belton’s hard work and dedication were evident in his long and successful careers as a diesel mechanic with Haliburton Industries for fifteen years, and later as a heavy equipment mechanic at Reynolds Aluminum for twenty-three years.

Family was at the core of Belton’s life. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to his children: sons, Belton Joseph Thibodeaux, Jr. (Diane), and Carl Thibodeaux (Jennifer), and his daughter, Jacqueline Maria Anderson (Don). Belton’s love extended to his six grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild, who brought him immense joy throughout his life.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 PM on Thursday, August 10, 2023, at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, located at 3939 Lake Street, Lake Charles, La. Father Josh Paige will serve as Celebrant. Following the service, Belton will be laid to rest in Consolata Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. Visitation will be held at Johnson Funeral Home of Lake Charles on Thursday from 9 a.m. until leaving in procession to the church at 1:30 p.m., with a rosary being recited at 11 a.m..

As we say our final goodbye to Belton, let us remember him not only for his remarkable achievements but also for the love, kindness, and laughter he brought into the lives of those around him. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at www.stjude.org.

Words of comfort to the family may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.