Jessline "Shorty" Howard Soileau

Opelousas- A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Jessline “Shorty” Howard Soileau on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Washington. Fr. Corey Campeaux will celebrate the Mass. Readers will be Kim Miller and Emily Soileau. Gift Bearers will be Laikyn Soileau and Jon-Luke Fontenot. Rite of Committal will follow in the Evangeline Memorial Park in Ville Platte.

Jessline "Shorty" Howard Soileau passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on July 29, 2026, at Prompt Succor Nursing Home. Born on February 7, 1938, in Grand Prairie, Louisiana, Jessline lived a life marked by dedication, faith, and grace.

Throughout her 36-year career in banking, Jessline served her community with integrity and commitment. She began her professional journey at Planters Bank, which later became First National Bank, and retired with the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike. A devoted parishioner of Immaculate Conception Church of Washington, Jessline’s faith guided her throughout her life.

Jessline is survived by her sons, Dennis Soileau and wife Carlene of Opelousas, Larry Soileau and wife Donna of Leesville; twin brother, Jessie Howard and wife Anna Jane of Washington; 3 grandchildren, Katie Langley of Eunice, Ryan Soileau of Washington and Gretchen Soileau of Kenner.

Jessline was proceeded in death by her husband, Arville Soileau Jr.; parents, John and Izola Howard; sister, Shirley Mae Howard.

Visitation will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.; the rosary will be recited at 11:00 a.m. in the Sibille Funeral Home of Opelousas.

Pallbearers will be Dennis Soileau, Larry Soileau, Ryan Soileau, Gretchen Soileau, John Howard and Brad Soileau. Honorary pallbearer will be her godchild, Benny Howard.

Jessline “Shorty” Howard Soileau’s legacy is one defined by kindness, loyalty, and a deep sense of responsibility to those she served and cared for. Her life touched many, and her memory will remain cherished by all who knew 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.