Paul Leo Chiasson

Paul Leo Chiasson, a beloved figure in the community and a dedicated family man, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026, at the Beauregard Health System in DeRidder, Louisiana. Born on January 31, 1958, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Paul lived a life marked by a profound connection to family and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Funeral services for Paul Leo Chiasson will be held on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Gravel Hill Baptist Church located at 1382 Gravel Hill Church Road, Pitkin, Louisiana. Pastor Chad Estes will conduct the service. A burial will follow in the Blue Branch Cemetery in Pitkin, Louisiana.

Visitation will be held in the Gravel Hill Baptist Church in Pitkin, Louisiana on Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 10:00 PM. The church will reopen on Monday, January 5, 2026, from 8:00 AM until 11:00 AM. Pallbearers will be Josh Thompson, Brandon Duvall, Jr., Justin Midkiff, Jacob Midkiff, Matt Thompson and Ean Thompson. Honorary pallbearer will be Phillip Goodwin.

Throughout his career, Paul made his mark in the logging industry as a skidder operator. Paul’s true joy came from the moments spent with his family. He cherished every opportunity to connect with his loved ones, particularly relishing the time spent with his grandchildren.

Paul found great peace in the simple pleasures of life like sitting on his front porch and enjoying the company of his family. His passion for nature was evident. He enjoyed spending time outdoors with his cattle, hunting, fishing, working his tractor, tending his garden, and managing his land.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him as a devoted father, grandfather and friend. As we reflect on Paul’s life, we hold dear the countless memories we shared with him and the echoes of his laughter that remain in our hearts. Paul Leo Chiasson will be deeply missed, but his spirit and the joy he brought into our lives will stay with us forever.

He is survived by his son, James Chiasson and his wife, Jessica; his daughter, Leona Duvall and her husband, Brandon; his brother, James Albert Chiasson and his wife, Shelley; his sisters, Mary Ann Young and her husband, Ronnie and Jimmie Baker; and his brother-in-law, Willie Thompson. Paul’s legacy continues through his grandchildren, Justin Midkiff (Sarah), Jacob Midkiff (Karlie), Julia Chiasson, Brandon Duvall, Jr., and Lydia Duvall, along with his great-grandchild, Annlee Grace Midkiff. He is also survived by his nephews, Matt Thompson (Mika) and Josh Thompson (Kristy); his niece, Leann Crockett (Roger) along with a host of other nephews and nieces and his fur baby, Bitsy.

Paul is preceded in death by his wife of 44 ½ years, Mary “Kathy” Fortenberry Chiasson and his parents, Leo Chiasson and Dorothy Lou Hill Chiasson.

The family would like to thank Phillip and Dicey Goodwin as well as Gravel Hill Baptist Church family for their love and care shown to him throughout the years.

Family and friends are invited to visit our website 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.