John "Gene" Prejean

Kaplan, La - A Mass of Christian Burial officiated by Reverend Mikel Polson will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at St Francis Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church honoring the life of John Dewitt Prejean, 86, who passed away on June 14, 2025, at Kaplan Healthcare Center. A visitation will take place at St Francis Xavier Cabrini Catholic Church on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM with a rosary being prayed at 1:30 PM.

Gene, as he was affectionately known, was born on August 17, 1938 in Kaplan, La. He was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was one marked by love, compassion, hard work, and his unwavering faith in God. He proudly served in the United States Navy.

Gene, "Roadrunner" as he was known in the welding community was known for his perfectionist weld and making the impossible possible. He was proud of his job and his colleagues who he mentored over many years.

He enjoyed fishing, family time, riding Harley Davidsons, and endless laughter and jokes.

He is survived by his longtime companion of 31 years, Eva Champagne of Kaplan, La; his son, John D. Prejean II and wife Adele; his daughter, Gwen Stewart and her husband Terry; his stepchildren, Kirk Champagne and wife Olivia, Dawn Champagne and fiancé Todd Gravouilla, Blake Champagne and wife Amy, Crystal Champagne, Byron Champagne and wife Shayla and Shane Frederick; and his stepsisters, Annadell Prejean, Janet Lemoine, and Patricia McCain. His children and blended family awarded him with the love of 19 grand-children and 25 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by the mother of his children Glenda Miles Prejean; his parents, Lizzem Prejean and the former Ella Mae Simon; his stepbrother, Steve Prejean, his grandparents and his loving grandmother who raised him, Edmae Mathew.

All funeral arrangements are being conducted by Vincent Funeral Home - Kaplan (337) 643-7276.