Harry Joseph Roy, Sr.

Harry Joseph Roy, Sr., affectionately known as "PaJoe," passed away on May 22, 2025, at HCA Houston Healthcare South in Pasadena, TX, at the age of 91. Born on October 31, 1933, in Opelousas, LA, Harry grew up in Port Barre, LA. Harry's spirit was as vibrant as the colorful traditions of his hometown.

In his early years, he ventured into the oilfields, showcasing an industrious nature that would guide him throughout his life. When working at Hill Petroleum in Krotz Springs, LA, he developed a wrench and stopped a massive oil leak, which saved the company thousands of dollars. When asked by the boss what they could do for him for this awesome save, Harry replied, “a couple of days off would be nice”. Everyone to this date still calls this tool, “The PaJoe Wrench”. As a true entrepreneur, he thrived in various roles; he not only sold Kirby vacuum cleaners for which he received many accolades; he also took pride in owning and operating Champlin's service station and PaJoe's One Stop, both located in Port Barre, LA. His talents didn't stop there-Harry could repair anything that crossed his path, a skill that endeared him to many even after retirement, as he continued to lend a helping hand at the Chateau Wein Apartment complex in Opelousas. He loved helping people in any and all situations.

An avid sports enthusiast, Harry poured his heart into coaching the women's softball team, embodying the essence of a dedicated supporter. He can be remembered at every game, cheering joyfully for his children & grandchildren, ensuring they knew the warmth of his unwavering belief in their abilities. Oh how he loved watching them play sports! His favorite sport was football and he was a diehard Dallas fan. Harry's love for music remained diverse over the years; his resonance with classics could often be heard echoing through the home, exuberantly singing Elvis Presley's "You Ain't Nothing but a Hound Dog!"

Harry's personality radiated warmth and encouragement—a firm believer in the potential of his family, he instilled in them the notion that they could achieve anything they set their minds to. He was a kid at heart, relishing the joy of family traditions, especially during Christmas, where he created unforgettable memories filled with merriment, holiday films, and exhilarating trips to the local fairs, sharing laughter and light with loved ones.

A man of simple pleasures, he found comfort in the company of friends and family. He loved to unwind with his favorite television shows, often seated before the flickering screen, lost in the adventures of John Wayne, Gunsmoke, and the classic Westerns that brought him joy. Another great classic he loved was “The Ten Commandments”. He also loved all war movies and was very patriotic.

Harry had a unique ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary, often punctuating moments with his favorite phrase, "This is most fantastic!"

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 30, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel of Lafond Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas. On Saturday, the visitation will continue from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel at Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas. A funeral service will be held on May 31, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in the Skip Montet Memorial Chapel officiate by Rev. Benny Reppond. Graveside services will follow at Bellevue Memorial Park in Opelousas.

The Pallbearers will be Andrew Mayer, Chance Mistric, Coby Roy, Jacque Mistric, Kaleb Roy, and Trent Hatcher.

He is survived by his brother, Michael Keith Roy of Port Barre, LA; one son, Jay Roy (Shelly) of Texas City, TX; two daughters, Roberta Roy of Lake Charles; and Lynda Roy of Lake Charles. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Coby Roy (MacKenzie), Kaleb Roy (Ashlyne), Niki McCormick, Jacque Mistric (Jenna), Chance Mistric (Kelli), Cicely Guidry (Cody), Trent Hatcher; great-grandchildren: Jadyn Roy, Jenna Roy, Joseph William Roy, John Lucas Roy (who’s expected date of arrival is in June), Andrew Mayer (Madison), Anna Alexys Guidry, Charlie Boudreaux, Joleigh Mistric, Jhett Mistric, Cam Mistric, Cannon Mistric, Kase Disotell, Hayden Arabie, Cruz Guidry, Chandler Guidry, and Cooper Guidry.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Roy and Isaure Devillier Roy; former wife, Margaret Theriot Roy; brothers, Rayfield Roy, Monroe Roy, Arthur “Nutsy” Lee Roy, Clayton “Day” Roy, and Joseph Creighton “Toto” Roy; sisters, Marjorie Elaine “Totty” Roy and Arleen Rita “Sis” Roy Mistric.

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.