Betty Ann Teresa Melancon

Betty Ann Duet Melancon, 85, born May 25th, 1939, in Schriever, Louisiana, was welcomed to her eternal home on December 22nd, 2024, in Houma, Louisiana, surrounded by her loved ones.

The family of Mrs. Betty Melancon would like to invite Mrs. Betty's family and friends to attend a visitation on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at Maria Immaculata Catholic Church in Houma, LA from 8:30A.M. until service time. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at Maria Immaculata Catholic Church in Houma, LA at 10:00A.M. with burial following services in St. Bridget Cemetery in Schriever, LA.

Betty was born & raised in Schriever, Louisiana. She graduated in 1957 from Terrebonne High School, and, in 1961 from Nicholls State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. She taught fourth, fifth, and sixth grades in Terrebonne and Lafayette Parishes for 25 years, retiring in 1995, then substituting until 2010.

Betty married the love of her life, Kenneth J. Melancon, in 1983 and enjoyed 24 years of blissful happiness with him. They created many memories traveling and visiting family and friends. They shared a passion for dancing and, on many occasions, captivated the dance floor. Their bond, built in adventure and shared joy, remains a cherished memory that continues to inspire all who knew them.

Betty is survived by her daughters: Sharon Theriot (Walt), Lynn Bonvillain Hunter (Jerry), Beth Rowland (Todd); stepdaughters: Hope Scott (Terry), Melissa Bascle (Matt); six grandchildren: Dr. Sarah Beth Mehl (Steven), Kathryn Maus (J.B.), Dr. Annelise Bonvillain, Madison Rowland, Esq., Evan Rowland, Caroline Rowland; four step-grandchildren: Ashleigh Scott, Darren Scott, Connor Bascle, Nicholas Bascle (McKensie); three great-grandchildren: Gabriel Bonvillain, Mary Kathryn Mehl, Jack Maus; one step-great-grandchild: River Bascle; two sisters: Anna Mae Banowetz and Iris Bergeron (Ken); sisters-in-law: Ellen Duet, Emilie Daye (Jere), Betty Bennett (George), and Catherine Melancon.

She was predeceased by her husband Kenneth J. Melancon; stepson John Melancon; parents Charles A. Duet, Sr. and Aimee Waguespack Duet; brothers Charles Duet, Jr. and David Duet; brothers-in-law Don Banowetz, Sr. and Phil Melancon; and sister-in-law Virginia Duet.

Her memory lives on also with her nieces and nephews: Donny and Jamey Banowetz; Kay and Marty Kilburg; Susan and Jerome Snyder; Linda and Lance Hemphill; Sandra and Paul LaRose; (late) Lisa and Ken Filardo; Mona and Joe Roberts; Jason Bergeron and Robert Levenstein; Amy and Jim Shorter; Cindy and David Rome; David and Kim Duet.

Betty was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on this earth was marked by compassion, strong faith in God, and her unwavering love for her family and friends. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew her. We ask that you remember her not for the way her life ended, but for the way it was lived and for the profound impact she had on so many lives. Those who knew Betty will remember her for her beautiful smile that lit up a room, infectious laugh, and unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness to everyone she encountered.

Betty cherished every moment spent with her daughters, grandchildren, sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends, finding joy in the laughter, love, and shared experiences that came with these relationships. Whether it was family gatherings, quiet conversations, or creating memories, she always made those around her feel valued and loved.

In her free time, Betty was actively involved in her retired teachers' organizations and the '57 Girls' Club, where she and her classmates gathered monthly for lunch. She possessed a natural artistic talent creating beautiful and meaningful artwork at various times in her life. Betty was also known for excelling at Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and gameshows. Additionally, she found solace in the outdoors, enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Organizations she belonged to include: Nicholls Alumni Federation; Terrebonne Retired Teachers Association; Louisiana Retired Teachers Association; Delta Kappa Gamma Iota Chapter (International Society for women in education); Kappa Kappa Iota - Gamma Chapter; Retired National Teachers Organization (where she served as State Empathy Chairperson).

She was an active member of Maria Immacolata Catholic Church, where she taught CCD and children's church, and regularly participated in various church activities. Her strong Christian faith was evident in her steadfast devotion to following Christ and in her sincere efforts to share His love with others.

Although Betty's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May her memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth her legacy of love and compassion in all that we do. As she continues to worship Jesus in Heaven, may her light shine forever brightly in our hearts.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 24th at 10:00am at Maria Immacolata Catholic Church in Houma. The family will receive visitors 8:30am - 10:00am. Following the service, burial will take place at St. Bridget Church Cemetery in Schriever.

Pallbearers will include sons-in-law: Walt Theriot, Todd Rowland, Jerry Hunter, Matt Bascle, Terry Scott; grandsons: Evan Rowland, Darren Scott, Connor Bascle, Nicholas Bascle; and nephew, Paul LaRose.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at Terrebone Place Assisted Living and Haydel Hospice for the exceptional care and compassion they provided to our precious mother. We are truly grateful for the kindness and support shown during this time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Betty's favorite charity, St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital at PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929.