Eugene "Gene" Pierrel Fisher, Jr.

Eugene "Gene" Pierrel Fisher, Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community member, passed away peacefully at his residence on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born on September 3, 1936, in Washington, Louisiana and dedicated much of his life to family, service, and his lifelong career in healthcare.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Eugene “Gene” Pierrel Fisher, Jr. will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Washington, Louisiana. Reverend Matthew Higginbotham will celebrate the Mass. Rite of Committal and interment will be held at Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Visitation will begin on Thursday, March 27, 2025, in the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel at Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas beginning at 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A Rosary will be recited at 6:00 p.m. Thursday evening by the Ladies Rosary Group. The funeral home will reopen on Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

The pallbearers will be Ryan Fisher, Kyle Fisher, Joey Leger, Robert Leger, James Fisher, David Fisher, Gauge Fisher and Paul Fisher.

With an impressive work ethic, Gene began his journey at Opelousas General Health System as a lab technician before moving on to hold various pivotal roles, including that of Safety Director, ultimately retiring as the Director of Security after a remarkable 53 years of service. His commitment extended beyond his career; he served as an assistant coroner for St. Landry Parish for 12 years, demonstrating his dedication to public safety and health.

A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Gene served during the Korean Conflict, a chapter of his life that filled him with pride and honor. He was also a cherished member of the VFW - Washington Post 0209, where he forged strong bonds with fellow veterans.

In his personal life, Gene was affectionately known as “Sweetie” among his family, a nickname that captured his warm spirit and kind nature. He enjoyed the beauty of life outdoors, finding joy in gardening, raising cattle, and taking vacations, particularly loving the tranquility of camping in their travel trailer with his wife, Betty, and their children. His zest for life also led him on many cruises where he created lasting memories with loved ones.

Gene was a lifelong parishioner of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Washington, Louisiana, where he took pride in serving as an usher during masses—a testament to his devotion and community spirit. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but for the love he radiated in all aspects of his life.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Betty Lavergne Fisher, of Washington; his sons, Eugene P. Fisher, III and wife, Brenda, of Washington, George "Eddie" Fisher, of Washington, James Keith Fisher and wife, Lisa, of Opelousas, Charles "Billy" Fisher and wife, Julie, of Opelousas, Donald Joseph Fisher and wife, Kendell, of Big Cane, Christopher Shane Soileau and wife, Tya, of Youngsville, Michael Paul Fisher and wife, Lauren, of Youngsville; and his daughter, Brenda "Sue" Fisher, of Washington. He is also survived by his brothers, David Fisher of Eunice, Albert Fisher of Carencro, Vernon Fisher and wife, "Tiny," of Plaisance; and his sisters, Lucille "Lucy" O'Brien, of Lafayette, and Ella Mae "Mamie" Lafleur of Eunice; 16 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Pierrel Fisher, Sr. and Alma Tate Fisher; his first wife and the mother of his first six children, Barbara Bertrand Fisher; his sisters-in-law, Shirley Fisher and Julie Fisher; and his brothers-in-law, John O'Brien and Frankie Lafleur.

As we celebrate the remarkable life of Gene, let us remember his unwavering spirit, his compassion, and the legacy of love he leaves behind, forever etched in the hearts of those who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the online guestbook at www.lafondardoin.com.

Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA 70570, (337) 942-2638, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.