Roland Paul Melancon

Roland Paul Melancon passed away peacefully on February 3, 2021 at the age of 88. He was the beloved husband of Mary Ann Lapeyrolerie Melancon for over 56 years. He was the father of Kevin Melancon (Kellie), Celeste Melancon Seidel (Dennis), and Janel Melancon Ryan (Bubby); grandfather of Nathaniel Melancon, Rebecca Melancon, Elizabeth Melancon Shellabarger (Joe), Jacob Melancon, Kaitlyn Seidel, Cody Seidel, Faith Ryan, Sean Ryan, and Emma Ryan. He was the son of the late Albert and Annie Landry Melancon. Brother of Margie Melancon Benoit (the late Eddie), as well as the late Charles Melancon (Betty) and Pearl Melancon Leco. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Roland was born and raised in the Irish Channel of New Orleans, and was a resident Harahan and River Ridge. He was a faithful fan of both the Saints and the LSU Tigers. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, golf, and spending time with his family. He retired from Gulf Best Electric Company after 32 years of service, retiring as Vice President.

He was very involved in his church, St. Rita Catholic Church in Harahan, including being a member of the St. Rita Dad's Club, and the Knights of Columbus. He served as a Faithful Navigator of the 4th Degree of the Knights of Columbus and was a member of the Color Corps of the 4th Degree, as well as being a past Grand Knight of the St. Rita Knights of Columbus. He was also a past president of the Marine Club of New Orleans and served as a honorary member until his death. He also served with the Alhambra organization later in his life, working with disabled adults.

Some of his favorite memories include playing music with Louie Prima's daughter, Joyce, and Henry Crocker. His proudest family moments include his wedding and the birth of his children. His proudest career accomplishment was becoming Vice President of Gulf Best Electric. His proudest personal moment was getting a hole in one at Pinehurst Country Club in 1992.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at his church, St. Rita Catholic Church, 7100 Jefferson Highway in Harahan at 12:00 PM. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM at the church. Interment will follow at Lake Lawn Park Cemetery in New Orleans. In Lieu of flowers, donations to the Bishop Greco Knights of Columbus Scholarship Fund in Metairie or the American Heart Association (heart.org). Express condolences at www.westsideleitzeagan.com.