Leeward Joseph Thibodeaux

ABBEVILLE- A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:30 PM, Thursday, December 19, 2024, at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church honoring the life of Leeward Joseph Thibodeaux, 93, with Reverend Nicholas DuPre’ officiating. Leeward passed away on Sunday December 15, 2024, at his residence. Lectors for the Mass will be Rani P. Broussard and Kim Armentor. Gift bearers will be Niki M. Thibodeaux, Gabrielle J. Thibodeaux, Maddox J. Primeaux, Evan P. Broussard, Hayes Thibodeaux, Connor P. Primeaux and Audrey E. Primeaux. He will be laid to rest at St. Paul Cemetery, with the Acadian Honor Guard rendering honors. Honored to serve as pallbearers will be Guy R. Thibodeaux, Garett J. Thibodeaux, Heath Broussard, Alvin J. Primeaux, Steffan J. Primeaux, Cy P. Primeaux and Richard “Dickie” Armentor.

Leeward Joseph Thibodeaux, born on January 19, 1931, in Henry to Nudes and Nelia Thibodeaux, was a remarkable individual whose life was marked by achievement and love. He excelled academically at Henry High School, graduating as valedictorian in 1948 before pursuing a bachelor's degree in science and math at SLI (now UL Lafayette). After completing his education, he served two years in the Army, spending 14 months stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

Upon returning home, Leeward married his beloved Betty Armentor on June 5, 1955. Their marriage lasted an impressive 69 years, filled with love and companionship until his passing. Leeward dedicated over 25 years of his career to Farm Bureau Insurance before retiring.

 A true lover of country life, he enjoyed raising cattle and working on his farm, sharing the joys of rural living with his grandchildren. Whether he was on his tractor, pulling trees, or taking a peaceful nap under the shade of a big oak tree, he found solace and happiness in his surroundings. Leeward affectionately referred to his property as “next to heaven,” reflecting his deep appreciation for the simple pleasures of life.

 He is survived by his loving wife, Betty Armentor Thibodeaux; daughter, Karla T. Primeaux and her husband, Alvin; son, Guy R. Thibodeaux and his wife, Pauline; sister, Mamie T. Cormier and her husband, Billy. Leeward is also survived by his five grandchildren, Rani P. Broussard (Heath), Garett J. Thibodeaux ( Brittany), Steffan J. Primeaux (Sarah), Niki M. Thibodeaux, and Cy P. Primeaux (Jennifer); and six great grandchildren, Gabrielle J. Thibodeaux, Maddox J. Primeaux, Evan P. Broussard, Hayes J. Thibodeaux, Connor P. Primeaux, and Audrey E. Primeaux. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Nudes Paul Thibodeaux and Nelia Marie Leleux Thibodeaux; and sister, Beverly T. Broussard. 

Relatives and friends are invited for visitation at Vincent Funeral Home 209 S. Saint Charles St. Abbeville on Thursday, December 19, 2024, from 9:30 AM to until 1:15 PM when the procession will depart for church, with a rosary to be prayed at 12:00 PM Noon. 

 Arrangements have been entrusted to Vincent Funeral Home - Abbeville (337) 893-4661.