Rita M. Gautreaux

A native and resident of Gonzales, LA, Rita Mae Gautreaux, 92, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 8, 2024. Rita was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt. She was a dedicated and supportive matriarch who cherished spending time with her family. Rita was known for her vibrant spirit and her one-of-a-kind personality. During her high school years, she excelled as both a basketball player and cheerleader, showcasing her energetic and competitive nature. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John "Billy" Gautreaux; her parents, Allie and Vivian Gautreau; her son, Corey Gautreaux; her great-grandson, Dawson Trahan; her sister, Verla Lambert; and her brothers, Felton, Edward, and John Gautreau. Rita is survived by her children, Charmaine (Tim) Babin, Carla (Chad) Ruiz, and Craig (Lorna) Gautreaux; her daughter-in-law, Amy Gautreaux; 13 grandchildren: Shane Gautreaux, Sabrina Melancon, Brady Gautreaux, Carey Gautreaux, Timothy Babin, Tabitha Wilkins, Tara Newchurch, Haylee Munson, Mallory Lanclos, Chase Ruiz, Jason Ruiz, Amber Trahan, and Vance Gautreaux; and 22 great-grandchildren, including Jenna Gautreaux, Gant Gautreaux, Brianna Melancon, Kaley Melancon, Jaxon Gautreaux, Aniya Barbier, Delilah Scarborough, Charlie Babin, Louie Babin, Wylie Wilkins, Whitt Wilkins, Brock Munson, Avery Lanclos, Lucas Ruiz, Clare Ruiz, Wyatt Ruiz, Lydia Ruiz, Corbin Gautreaux, Cambry Gautreaux, Collin Gautreaux, Briggs Trahan, and Addison Trahan. She is also survived by her sister, Jeanie Lambert; and brothers, Barney Gautreau and Kern Gautreau. A visitation will be held on Friday, December 13, 2024, at St. Mark Catholic Church from 9:00 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Hope Haven Garden of Memory on Highway 30. Pallbearers will be Shane Gautreaux, Brady Gautreaux, Carey Gautreaux, Timothy Babin, Vance Gautreaux, Chase Ruiz, and Jason Ruiz. Rita's family will always remember her as the heart and soul of their gatherings, and her memory will live on through her loved ones.