Elgee Stelly, Sr.

Elgee Stelly, Sr., age 92, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025, at his residence. He was born on September 23, 1932, in Woodside, Louisiana.

Funeral services for Elgee will be held at 2:00 p.m. in the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel at Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home in Opelousas. Reverend Anthony Polotzola will conduct the service. Burial will follow at Bellevue Memorial Park in Opelousas.

Visitation will be held at LaFond-Ardoin Funeral Home in Opelousas on Friday, July 4, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Elgee spent his career as a ferry boat captain. His commitment to excellence in his craft did not go unnoticed, as he proudly received Meritorious Awards for his remarkable service, celebrating 20 years and 25 years in his profession.

Beyond his career, Elgee was a man of simple pleasures. He found immense joy in gardening, and he loved hunting and fishing. An avid lover of music, he would often be found enjoying the sweet sounds of country and Cajun music. He loved his family and cherished each moment spent with them.

Above all, Elgee’s heart belonged to his family. Elgee is survived by his sons, Elgee Stelly, Jr., Warren Stelly (Stacy), Mark Stelly, and Barry Stelly. His daughter, Sheila Stelly Bowser (Warren "Bob"); his brother, E.J. Stelly, and his sisters, Mary Stelly, Shirley Wagner, Bertha Pitre, and Linda Faye Richard (Charles). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jennifer Bowser, Marisa Dubroc (Brett), David Bowser, and Jenna McAdams (Corey), and his great-grandchildren, Anthony Rizzuto, Nicholas Rizzuto, Konor Dubroc, Kami Dubroc, Fletcher McAdams, and Emersyn McAdams, each of whom brought a sparkle to his eye and warmth to his heart.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Katherine Schulze Stelly, as well as his parents, Yves Stelly and Drussie Guillot Stelly, his brother, Felton Stelly, and his sister, Ruby Deranger.

Elgee’s spirit remains alive in the hearts of all who knew him. He leaves behind a profound legacy of kindness, strength, and an unwavering love for family that can never be extinguished. As we remember Elgee Stelly, Sr., let us carry forth his love for life, his connection with nature, and above all, his devotion to family, which defined him in every possible way. He will be deeply missed but eternally celebrated within the hearts of those he touched.

Family and friends are invited to sign and view the online guestbook at www.lafondardoin.com.

Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas, 2845 South Union Street, Opelousas, LA 70570, (337) 942-2638, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.