Marcus "Frenchie" Cox

Marcus “Frenchie” Cox, age 71, passed Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at his residence in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A native of Avoyelles Parish, Marcus left home at the age of eighteen to join the United States Airforce, serving during the Vietnam War. During his time in the military, he trained at Le Cordon Bleu culinary institute.

If you knew Marcus, or as he was affectionately known “Frenchie”, then you knew how much being a chef meant to him. Known for his Cajun cuisine served with a side of his memorable commentary, ranging from topics such as LSU football to quoting Julius Ceasar, he was a remarkable soul loved by so many. Marcus’ career as a chef led him to several restaurants such as Juban’s and Phil’s Oyster Bar, but the one he was known for best, was the time he spent at Louie’s Café. The customers’, and staff of Louie’s became family to Marcus, as he spent thirty-three years of his life creating not only meals, but memories as well.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Dean Cox; his parents, Allen and Julia Matt Normand; his father Marcus Cox Sr; his brother John Normand, his sister Janice Normand, and his beloved dogs Bruno, Willie, and Elvis.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Jessica, Denny, Cody, Stewart, and Lori; three sisters, Marian Ponthier of Mansura, Cindy Normand of Hessmer, and Melissa Normand of Luling, his special friend Camielle of Baton Rouge, and his grandchildren. He is also survived by a host of nephews, nieces, family and friends.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

To know Marcus, was to love Marcus. Thank you to the Baton Rouge community for sharing your stories, your pictures, and your memories about our beloved family member. Marcus loved his mother dearly and would let anyone know that he got his love of cooking from her. He is now at rest reunited with his mother once again.