Jerry Claude Sonnier

Breaux Bridge - A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 1 p.m., on Monday, April 15, 2024, at St. Bernard Catholic Church for Jerry Claude Sonnier, 86, who passed away on Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center. 

A visitation took place at the funeral home in Breaux Bridge on Sunday from 1:30 p.m. to 8  p.m. and continued on Monday from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

A Rosary was recited at 6 p.m. on Sunday, by Marlene Dore.

Rev. Reed Bellingham officiated at the Funeral Mass. Readers were Cheryl Sonnier and Ji Sonnier. Gift Bearers were Kerri Menard, Taylor Law, Sydni Sonnier, Darion Sonnier, Sophie Sonnier, and Lexi Sonnier.

Interment followed at St. Bernard Cemetery No. 2. 

Jerry Claude Sonnier, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend, was born on July 21, 1937, in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, a town that held a special place in his heart throughout his life.

Jerry led a life full of love and service to others. His dedication to his faith was evident through his roles as a past Eucharistic Minister and an Usher at St. Bernard Catholic Church. He also served his country with honor as he was a past Commander with the American Legion unit in Breaux Bridge, and proudly served as a Buck Sergeant in the United States Army during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.

After 33 years of hard work, Jerry retired from Georgia Pacific Corp., leaving behind a legacy of commitment and professionalism. But beyond his professional achievements, Jerry will be remembered for his kind and hardworking nature. His infectious smile brought joy to all those around him, and he never missed an opportunity to bring his wife out for a dance, showcasing their enduring love for each other.

In his free time, Jerry indulged in various hobbies and interests that brought him great joy. From woodworking projects like building birdhouses and small church pews, to playing golf and tending to his yard filled with over a variety of 150 Daylilies, he found peace and satisfaction in these activities.

Jerry leaves behind his loving wife, children, grandchildren, extended family members, and numerous friends who were touched by his warmth and generosity. The memories of his kindness and the legacy of love he leaves behind will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Earline Sonnier; sons, Robert Chet (Melissa) Sonnier, Steve Dirck (Cheryl) Sonnier, David Troy (Kris Reed) Sonnier, and Michael Drew (Dione) Sonnier; brothers, Nelson Sonnier and Kenny Sonnier; sister, Verlie (Curley) LeBlanc; grandchildren, Kerri Menard, Ji Sonnier, Lexi Sonnier, Taylor Law, Sydni Sonnier, Darion Sonnier, Logan Sonnier, and Sophie Sonnier; and his great grandchildren, Drew Menard, Aaron Menard, Ella Hebert, Nora Sonnier, Livi Law, and Asher Huval. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and Inez Melancon Sonnier; and his brother, Donald “T-Don” Sonnier. 

Pallbearers were Robert Chet Sonnier, David Troy Sonnier, Ji Sonnier, Steve Dirck Sonnier, Michael Drew Sonnier, and Logan Sonnier.

Honorary pallbearers were Brandon Law, Berney Huval, Craig Menard, Drew Menard, and Aaron Menard.  

Pellerin Funeral Home was  in charge of arrangements.

(Pd.Adv.)