Wallace James “Jimmy” Fontenot Jr., 73, was born Feb. 5, 1951 in Welsh, La.to Wallace and Belle Fontenot and passed away on April 6, 2024 in Portland, Ore. surrounded by his loving family.

Jimmy was a 1969 graduate of Welsh High School.  He proudly served his country in the United States Army, including a tour in Vietnam.  

Upon completion of his service, he moved to Portland, Ore., graduating from Mount Hood Community College.  He worked as a carpenter until his retirement. 

Jim met Janie Willhite in Portland and they were married for 46 years.  Together they raised two daughters, Kristina Fontenot Taylor and Carrie Fontenot.

He spent much of his free time hunting, fishing and camping on the Oregon coast. Because of his love of his Cajun heritage, Jim was affectionately known as “Gator”.  He loved  barbeques, craw-fish boils, annual Mardi Gras celebrations.

He is survived by his wife, Janie; daughters, Kristina (Eric) Taylor from Millville, N.J.,  Carrie Fontenot from Portland,  and beloved granddaughter, Ella Taylor.  

He is also survived by sisters, Cynthia (Gene) Welch of LeCenter, Wash., Susan Mayes of Welsh, La., and Mary (Butch) Benoit of Lake Charles; brother, Bill (Shirley) Hudson of Welsh, La., and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ilene Ardoin; nephew, Ryan Mayes, and niece, Katy Fear.