Lee Robert Darbonne, age 81, passed away on May 12, 2026, in Opelousas, Louisiana. Born on October 24, 1944, Lee lived a life marked by dedication to his loved ones, country, and community.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Lee on Monday, May 18, 2026, at St, Landry Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. The Mass will be celebrated by Father Neil Pettit. Rite of Committal and Burial will follow at Bellevue Memorial Park in Opelousas, La.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Lafond-Ardoin Funeral Home of Opelousas from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Rosary will be recited Sunday evening at 6:00 p.m. by the Fourth Degree Knights of Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church. The funeral home will re-open on Monday for visitation from 8:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m.

Lee’s journey was deeply rooted in service. A proud veteran of the United States Navy, he carried the values of honor and commitment throughout his life. He was a past member of the American Legion Post 209 in Washington, Louisiana, demonstrating lifelong pride in his service and commitment to fellow veterans. Following his military tenure, he dedicated over 15 years as a Louisiana State Trooper and continued his service as a school bus driver for St. Landry Parish, where he spent another 20 years ensuring the safety and well-being of countless children.

His faith was a central pillar in his life, and he was a longtime parishioner of St. Landry Catholic Church. Lee was also an active member of the Jules B. Jeanmard Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus Council 326 and Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church Knights of Columbus Council 11270.

Lee took joy in simple, heartfelt moments. He treasured Wednesday nights spent playing Bourree' with his friends, a time of laughter and shared tradition. Sundays were reserved for family gatherings, where he delighted in the presence and warmth of those closest to him. He enjoyed woodworking, traveling and RV Camping.

Lee is survived by his wife of 57 years, Anna Soileau Darbonne, of Opelousas, LA; his daughters, Julie Darbonne Deville and her spouse, Gregory of Opelousas, LA; and Jolene Darbonne and her spouse, Jennifer Shelton of Tampa, Florida; his sisters, Carolyn Darbonne of Port Barre, LA; Lenora Speight and her spouse, John of Opelousas, LA; and Lisa Darbonne Dupont of Crowley, LA; and his grandchild, Tyler Deville and spouse, Jackie of Opelousas, LA; and his great-grandchild, Jade Deville of Opelousas.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Darbonne and Vernice Leger Darbonne; his brother, Eugene Darbonne, Jr.; and sister, Mary Ethelene Sittig, along with her spouse, Lammy Sittig; and his father-in-law, Joseph A. Soileau; and mother-in-law, Evie Bordelon Soileau.

Lee‘s life was a testament to love, service, and commitment. He will be remembered as a man who embraced life fully and loved deeply, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire all who knew him. His family and friends mourn his passing but celebrate the profound impact he had on their lives, cherishing the memories of a beloved father, husband, brother, grandfather, and friend.

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

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