Richard “Ric” L. Fontenot was born Aug. 16, 1951, in Lubbock, Texas, to Malcolm and Amy Fontenot.
A member of the Ville Platte High School class of ‘69, Ric then graduated from McNeese State University, with a degree in English. He was a lifelong supporter of his Alma Mater.
He was an English teacher at Pearl Watson Elementary, until he pursued a career in sales as a managing partner at Advantage Lumber. Upon retirement, he worked part time at Mallard Cove Golf Course.
He was a member of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and something he passed along to his family.
Ric was a man who spoke with blunt honesty, but his compassion and elegance made him an endearing friend.
He was larger than life, his charismatic nature and fun-loving spirit ensured he never met a stranger. He was an avid McNeese Cowboys fan, he loved attending the games, especially making a point to travel to all the away games. It was through McNeese tailgating that he met his wife, Tonja.
He loved spending time with his family and friends, and kept an open door for them to pop in and shoot the breeze for a while. His grandchildren and great grand-children knew him affectionately as “King.”
His passions in life included McNeese football, golfing, reading, Mardi Gras, and boldly discussing politics. He would often write letters to the editor of the American Press, and would make special guest appearances on KBYS’ Rock and Roll Gumbo show, on McNeese’s radio station, 88.3.
He passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents, Malcolm and Amy Fontenot; and by his grandson, Hayden Underwood.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Tonja; his children, Leslie (David) Underwood, Richard (Kim) Fontenot, Emily (Zack) Smith, Matthew (Kristen) Fontenot, Lyndsay (Jonathan) Stanley, and Katie Black; his grandchildren, Alex, Hannah, and Ben Underwood, Stephanie Klasen, and Trey Fontenot, Nell and Eve Rutherford, Hendrix and Cohen Fontenot, Khloe and Harper Stanley; and his great-grandchildren, Avery, Alaska and Josiah. He is also survived by his brother, Mike (Susan) Fontenot; and sister, Jackie (Paul) Mazzullo.
Service will be held in the Chapel of Johnson Funeral Home, Monday, Dec. 19, 2022, at 11 a.m. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service. The Rev. Weldon Bares will be officiating. Following the memorial services, there will be a time to share stories and enjoy his favorite music. Feel free to wear blue and gold to the service.
You may leave a memory and offer condolences on our website www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the McNeese Foundation, and as always GEAUX POKES!