Carla Faye Prejean Manuel

OPELOUSAS- A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Carla Prejean Manuel on Saturday, August 17, 2024 at 11:00 AM in the Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Opelousas. Fr. Jude Thierry will celebrate the mass. Rite of Committal will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Washington.

Carla Faye Prejean Manuel, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away on August 14, 2024, at her residence, surrounded by loved ones. 

Carla was a beacon of light in the lives of those she touched. Her gentle spirit and unwavering dedication to her students didn’t go unnoticed during her 22 years in special education at Grolee Elementary School. Colleagues and parents alike admired her endless patience and compassion, making her an invaluable member of the school community.

Outside of her professional life, Carla found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She had a deep love for animals of all kinds, often caring for all her pets with boundless love and kindness. Her love for nature extended to her frequent trips to the beach, where the sound of the waves brought her a sense of peace and tranquility. One of Carla's proudest accomplishments was running a 5k race, a testament to her determination and perseverance. Her commitment to reaching this goal showcased her inner strength and resilience. 

Carla is survived by her husband of 28 years, Raynal Manuel; sons, Courtney John Deshotel and wife Mindy, Kolby James Manuel and wife Mary Grace; daughters, Danielle Burleigh and husband Randall, Katie Miller and husband J.W. Miller; brother, Thad Prejean and wife, Mary Louise; 11 grandchildren, Amelia Burleigh, Madelyn Burleigh, Lindsey Vidrine, Damien Deshotel, Fay Deshotel, Grant Deshotel, Huntley Deshotel, Olivia Deshotel, Ethan Deshotel, Lily and Kade Miller; 2 great-grandchildren, Juliet Manuel and Jaxston Benoit; 3 more great-grandchildren on the way, Jordyn Manuel and the Deshotel Twins; and her fur babies, Annie and Charlie.

Carla is preceded in death by her parents; Ervin and Marie Landry Prejean; and her brother, Little Johnny Prejean.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 16, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. in the Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas. Deacon Dwayne Joubert will recite the rosary at 6:00 p.m. Friday evening. Visitation will resume on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home. 

Pallbearers will be Eric Prejean, Damien Deshotel, Fay Deshotel, Morgan Prejean, Randy Burleigh and Ethan Deshotel. 

Carla Faye Prejean Manuel will forever be remembered for her kindness, her generosity, and her unwavering love for all living beings. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing that she was truly loved and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Words of Comfort to the family may be expressed at www.sibillefuneralhomes.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas.