Deborah Lolan

Deborah Kay Lolan, a devoted daughter and aunt, loving sister, and avid equestrian, passed away on October 4, 2025, at the age of 71. Known for her sharp wit, wicked smarts, and generous heart, she lived life with authenticity and an unwavering loyalty to those she loved.

She was happiest spending time with her animals. She loved competing in horse shows, both endurance and dressage, with Epic and Suzy, and they, along with her cat, Chloe, were lucky to be cared for by her. Known for her attention to detail, patience, and quiet determination, Deb found joy in supporting her barn family, always cheering others on, celebrating their success, and accomplishing many achievements of her own.

Debbie approached life with an open mind and acted on her spirit of adventure. Whether it was trips to Japan or Europe, traveling to countless tennis tournaments (with stops for cheesecake), or playing in the backyard with her beloved great nieces and nephews (there was no limit to the amount of swinging, storytelling, or tea parties she would entertain), she embraced these experiences with equal curiosity and enthusiasm. She also found joy in gathering with her parents and close family for Monday Steak Night, a cherished tradition filled with laughter and shoestring french fries, her favorite.

A lifelong learner, Debbie attended both LSU and Tulane, earning a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s degree in accounting. She had fun serving as a docent at the Shadows-on-the-Teche, where she introduced her niece to the joy of pursuing things that interest you while giving back to your community. She was also a passionate reader and instilled a love of books in those she loved through Saturday trips to Books Along the Teche and hours spent chasing Carmen Sandiego and Waldo.

An exceptional seamstress, Debbie devised some of the finest Halloween costumes the Lolan kids, and perhaps all of New Iberia, had ever seen. She found joy in the craft of upholstery and refinished many unique pieces. And she baked a chocolate sheet cake that would have annual crawfish boil attendees lining up for seconds.

Appreciated as a “tell it like it is” confidante with a huge heart, her circle of friends knew her as someone who provided logical yet loving advice and ultimately would do anything for them.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Catherine and James Lolan; her brother, Ralph; her favorite dog, Gumbo; and first horse, Epic. She is survived by her brothers Wayne (Pam), and Sam (Linda) and her niece and nephews: Adrianne (Ryan), Caleb (Blair), Austin, and André. She will be deeply missed by her adoring great-nieces and nephews, Susanna, Ellie, Lucy, John Ryan, and Sammy, and by her friends at the barn.

A casual gathering of friends and family will be held at The Bazus, 210 East Main Street in New Iberia, on Saturday, October 18, from 3–5 p.m., to celebrate Debbie’s life. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Acadiana Therapeutic Riding, an organization that reflects her love of horses and the healing they bring. 

Pellerin Funeral Home, 502 Jefferson Terrace Blvd., New Iberia, LA 70560 (337-365-3331).