Ida Richard

Opelousas-- A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Ida Richard, at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church. Fr. Jude Thierry will officiate the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will follow in the Bellevue Memorial Park Cemetery.

Visitation will began on Saturday morning in the Sibille Funeral Home Chapel at 9:30 a.m. until time of service. A Rosary will be prayed at 12:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel by the Alter Society of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church.

Ida, a beloved member of the Opelousas community, passed away on February 4, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on October 12, 1937, in Opelousas, Louisiana, she led a life characterized by love, faith, and dedication to her family and community.

For 50 years, Ida served as a devoted bookkeeper for J.B. Sandoz Hardware, where she was respected not only for her professionalism but also for her kindhearted nature. Ida was known to be a very loving and caring person, who touched the lives of all who knew her. Her commitment to her work and the people around her showcased her nurturing spirit and resilience.

Ida's faith was her guiding light; she found strength and purpose in her relationship with the Catholic Church. As a member of the Our Lady Rosary Group for Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, she formed lasting bonds with fellow parishioners and contributed to the life of her community through her unwavering support and involvement. Her favorite phrase at the end of a conversation was "SO BE IT"! -  SO BE IT!.

She is survived by her daughter, Ruth Richard of Lafayette, and her niece, Connie Zalesky, nephews, Mark, Andre and Eric Gautreaux, all of whom feel the weight of their loss deeply.

Ida is preceded in death by her parents, Maurice and Rosemary Gautreaux; her husband, John "J.B." Richard; her brothers, Maurice and Robert Gautreaux; her sister, Catherine Wood; and her nephews, David Wood. Each of these individuals held a special place in her heart, and their memories will continue to resonate within her family.

The legacy of Ida Richard is one of steadfast love and faithfulness. She will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, her devotion to her family, and her unwavering faith. May she rest in peace, and may her memory inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers donation can be made to St. Jude Children Research Hospital.

Words of Comfort to the family may be expressed at www.sibillefuneralhomes.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas.