Rita Etienne Obituary

Rita Mae Landry Etienne departed this life on July 29,2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering kindness. Her life was a testament to generosity, resilience, and deep devotion to both her faith and her family. Rita was born in Welsh, Louisiana on June 17, 1936, to the late Florence August and Levi Landry. She grew up surrounded by love, hard work, and strong family values. She was the youngest sister to the late Wilda Lezine, Frank August, and John "Pee-Moe" August, and is survived by her eldest sister, Rosa Burns.

Rita was a loving and devoted mother to her children: Sandra Walker, Sheila Barrett (Terry), Cynthia Senegal (Keith). She was preceded in death by her beloved sons, Robert Deville Sr., Clarence "Peanut" Deville, and James Williams Etienne, and her son-in-law, Otis Walker.

She was a devoted member of St. Helen Catholic Church and also enjoyed attending services at St. Henry Catholic Church in Lake Charles, LA, as well as St. Francis in Houston, TX. Rita truly knew how to enjoy life. She had a vibrant spirit and a joyful soul. From childhood, she told stories of hopping on the back of a Model T with her partner in crime, Wilda, to catch a ride to school. She loved the simple things-playing dominoes, cards, tending to her garden, listening to her favorite music, visiting casinos, and simply having a good time surrounded by those she held close. Her laughter, storytelling, and lively presence brought light and warmth to every room she entered.

Her greatest joy came from her family and being proud of the life they built along the way. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy in her grandchildren: Samona Walker, Ajay Barrett, Sidney Walker, Chris Barrett, Tameka Deville, Brittany Deville, Alexis Higgins, Zawon Handy, and Tywon Handy. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandson, Robert Deville Jr. Her love also extends to a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended loved ones who will continue to carry her memory forward.

Rita's strength, kindness, and wisdom will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate to know her. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit and love will remain with us always.

A celebration of Rita's life will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, in King's Funeral Home Chapel. A visitation will be 9am until time of funeral at 11am. Burial will follow in Combre Memorial Park under the direction of King's Funeral Home.

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