Allen “Wayne” Manuel, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed member of the community, passed away peacefully in his home with his wife by his side in Mamou, Louisiana, on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the age of 72. Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 7, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Mamou. Burial will follow in the Mount Carmel Cemetery in Chataignier with Pastor Simon, of True Vine Ministries, officiating services.
Wayne was born on Tuesday, August 5, 1952, in Mamou and dedicated his life to his family, community, and career. Wayne was a proud veteran who served in the United States Navy, submarine force “silent service”. His military career instilled in him a profound sense of discipline and commitment that he carried through all aspects of his life. A significant highlight in Wayne’s life was his sobriety, a proud accomplishment that he carried with honor. For many years, Wayne served assisting adolescents on the road to recovery and then as a lead operator in the oilfield industry.
Wayne's warm and generous spirit made him go above and beyond to help anyone in need while he was a cherished friend and mentor to many. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was fishing or working in the yard. Wayne enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren, creating countless, cherished memories that would last a lifetime.
Wayne spent 36 wonderful years married to the love of his life, Monica. She was the center of his world. Their partnership was a testament to true love and mutual respect, which inspired those blessed to witness it.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will forever be remembered by those who knew him including his wife, Monica Thibodeaux Manuel; three sons, Joey Manuel, Jonathan Ledoux (Joanie), and Kris Ledoux; and two daughters, Melissa Dunlap (Manny) and Chasity Woods (Thaddeus). Also left behind to cherish his memory are his 18 grandchildren, Kaylee, Zach, Kyran, Melaina (Jacob), Keegan (Megan), Bri, Wyman, Jasmine, Caiden, Chloe, Eli, Cambre, Alyssa, Maya, Jazmine, Jeremiah, and Bentley; four great grandchildren, Sawyer, Parker, Jaxon, and Daxton; his siblings, Janell Deshotel, Darrel Manuel (Vickie), and Missy Vidrine (Steve); brother in law, Kent Lavergne; and his father and mother in law, Ray and Marion Baltoff, who were very special to him.
He now rests with his parents, Lou Manuel and Mavis Morein, sister Brenda Lavergne, and brother in law, Jay Deshotel.
The community of Mamou, alongside friends and family, will gather to celebrate his life and the remarkable impact he made in this world with a visitation at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Mamou, on Monday, April 7, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service.
Allen "Wayne" Manuel will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
Ardoin's Funeral Home in Mamou has been entrusted with Wayne's arrangements and invites family and friends to leave condolences and fond memories of him at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com
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717 6th St, Mamou, LA 70554
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


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