Carina Alice "Tante Sue" Vasseur

Carina Alice "Tante Sue” Vasseur, beloved member of the Mamou community, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, after living a beautiful life of 93 years. Born on Wednesday, June 3, 1931, in Mamou, Louisiana, Carina's warmth and spirit touched the lives of many who had the pleasure of knowing her. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 4, 2025 at 2:00 PM at St. Ann’s Catholic Church with Father Billy Massie as Celebrant. Burial will follow in Reed Cemetery.

Tante Sue dedicated much of her life to her career as a legal secretary and was well-known as the gracious hostess of Fred's Lounge, where she welcomed an array of patrons from different parts of the world. Many referred to her as the "Hostess with the Mostest," a testament to her welcoming personality, friendliness, and her genuine joy in sharing her love for Cajun music and her rich heritage. It was not uncommon for Tante Sue to share a shot of “Hot Damn” with adventurous souls eager to try new experiences, creating memories that lingered long after the last note echoed in the lounge.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Tante Sue’s character shone brightly through her friendly and loving disposition, always willing to help those in need. Her commitment to charity was particularly evident in her interactions with the homebound and the residents at Savoy Care Center. Tante Sue made it a priority to ensure that their radios were set to enjoy the music from Fred's Lounge on Saturday mornings, bringing a slice of joy and connection into their lives.

Throughout her life, Tante Sue received numerous accolades, reflecting her dedication to service and community. Notable recognitions include Mamou's Civic Award in 1959, the Woman of Woodcraft Award in 1962, the Savoy Medical Center Volunteer Award in 2005, and the Mamou Cajun Music Festival Appreciation Award in 2023. These honors speak volumes about Tante Sue’s impact and the love she cultivated through her selfless acts.

Tante Sue will be greatly missed, but will live on in the hearts of those she loved including her son, Preston James Dugas, Jr. (Jacqueline); daughter, Sandra T. McClelland-Duck (Joe); step son, Wayne Vasseur (Linda); 11 grandchildren, Pamela Coffey, Anthony Brent Tate, Michael Kent Tate (Shelly), Roxanne Speer (Paul), Rachel Lafleur (Kirk), Nichole Fritz (Shannon), Chad Veillon (Lynn), Joseph McClelland (Hope), Jeffrey McClelland (Danielle), Carla Dugas (Marge), and Preston James Dugas, III; and four step grandchildren, Corey Vasseur (Fran), Jason Vasseur (Jessica), Erin Vasseur, and Renee Vasseur Howell (Chris). Also left behind to cherish her memory are her 14 great grandchildren; 6 step great grandchildren; 14 great great grandchildren; step daughter in law, Mary Tate; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Tante Sue now rests with her husband of 18 years, Earl J. Vasseur; daughter, Sharon T. “Yaya” Berzas (Larry); parents, Addie and Marie Douget Fontenot; stepsons, Earl J. Vasseur, Jr. and Ronald J. Tate; and her sisters, Adeline Reed, Eliza Rozas, Rose Fontenot, Lurry Reed, Verna Ruth Saucier, and Hazel Vidrine.

As we gather to celebrate her remarkable life, visitation will be held at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Mamou on Thursday, April 3, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Friday, April 4, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM. A rosary, led by the Catholic Daughters, will be recited at 6:00 PM on Thursday evening.

Carina Alice "Tante Sue" Vasseur will be deeply missed, yet her legacy of warmth, generosity, and cultural celebration will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

The family would like to thank Dr. Nick LaHaye and his staff and the staff of Savoy Care Center for their excellent care and compassion.

Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Mamou is in charge of arrangements and invites family and friends to leave condolences and fond memories at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com.