Steven or "Papot Drag" LaGrange Jr.

Steven LaGrange, Jr.
September 8, 1944 – December 16, 2025

Steven LaGrange Jr., 81, a native of Hahnville and longtime resident of Ama, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2025. He was affectionately known as "Papot" or "Drag". He made his home in Ama, where he built his life, raised his family, and remained deeply rooted in the community he loved.

Born on September 8, 1944, Steven was the son of the late Menolia August and Steven LaGrange, Sr. During his teenage years, he moved to South Los Angeles, where he attended and graduated from Manual Arts High School. He later returned home to Ama, Louisiana, where he remained deeply rooted in the community for the rest of his life. He shared 61 loving years of marriage with his devoted wife, Elvina LaGrange, with whom he built a strong family foundation centered on commitment, perseverance, and love.

Steven accepted Christ and was baptized by the late Rev. Kendall Pierre at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Ama, Louisiana. At the time of his passing, he was a dedicated member of Historic Bell Baptist Church in Luling, Louisiana.

Steven dedicated more than 28 years of service to Shell Chemical, beginning his career in 1971. Through steady promotions, he rose to the position of Machinist First Class, a role he held until his retirement on May 1, 2000. His career reflected pride in his work, loyalty to his craft, and a deep sense of responsibility to his family. Steven also enjoyed the simple joys of life, especially hunting, golfing (...two holes-in-one), watching his favorite shows from past eras, and traveling. His hobbies filled his days with adventure, peace, and laughter. Steven was also known for being an incredible cook. Family and friends would travel from near and far just to enjoy his meals, with his famous jambalaya always being a crowd favorite.

He was a proud father to four children: Harold LaGrange (former wife, Tajuana), Dwayne LaGrange (Avis), Trina LaGrange, Gena Nickelson (Kenric), and bonus son, Durrell LaGrange. He was a loving grandfather and great-grandfather to Morgan Dabney, Mya LaGrange-Hicks, Holden LaGrange, Hunter LaGrange, McKenna Nickelson, Chloe Hutchinson, and Marleigh Nickelson, each of whom brought him immense joy.

Steven is survived by his loving wife, Elvina LaGrange; children and grandchildren; siblings, Maryann Wright and Marie LaGrange; Godchildren, Donald LeBeauf, Jr. and Patricia Johnson Ballansaw; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends, including four very special friends: Archie Brown Sr., Donald LeBeauf, Sr., Ben Parquet, and Eldridge Triche.

Steven was known for his strength, kindness, steady presence, and unwavering faith. A devoted man of God and lifelong Bible scholar, he lived his life grounded in the Word. He was also a man who loved joy and laughter, and his sense of humor brought light to everyone around him. He had a special way of showing love by giving those closest to him nicknames, each one filled with affection and meaning. He especially loved sharing dances with his beloved wife to their favorite songs, never missing a chance to laugh, sway, and enjoy the moment together. His faith, warmth, and deep love for family leave a legacy that will continue to bless generations.

Steven will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord." Matthew 25:21

Steven was preceded in death by his parents, Menolia and Steven LaGrange, Sr.; his grandson, Hunter Steven LaGrange; his siblings, Emelda Cannon, Linda LaGrange, Arcadia Alexander, Allery Woods, Sr., Stan Woods, Melvin Woods, Sr., and Lawrence Woods, Sr.; and his dear friend, Henderson "Yank" Taylor, Sr.

Relatives and friends of the family, Pastors, officers and members of the Historic Bell Baptist Church and all neighboring Churches are invited to the Celebration of Life Services at 11:00am on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Historic Bell Baptist Church, 300 Hackberry Lane, Luling, LA 70070. Rev. Rodney L. Johnson, Sr., Pastor-Officiant. Visitation 9:00am until the time of service at the above-named Church. Interment Bell Baptist Church Cemetery, Luling, LA. Final Arrangements entrusted to Patrick H. Sanders Funeral Home & Funeral Directors, LLC. 605 Main Street, Laplace, LA 70068. 985-359-1919. "Providing Care & Comfort is Our Highest Mission."