Johnny Ray Duplechain

Port Barre-- A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Johnny Ray Duplechain on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Port Barre. Fr. Clint Trahan will officiate the Mass. Burial will follow in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Port Barre.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. with a Rosary to be prayed by Myra Duplechain at 6:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. On Thursday the funeral home will reopen at 7:00 a.m. until 9:45 a.m.

Johnny Ray, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home on September 21, 2025, at the age of 78. 

With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Johnny Ray Duplechain announces his peaceful passing. A devoted husband, cherished father, proud grandfather, and faithful servant of God, Johnny Ray leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and strength that will forever be remembered. Born and raised with the spirit of a Red Devil, Johnny was a proud alumnus who shined both on the football field and on the track. His determination, teamwork, and discipline in those early years became qualities that guided him throughout his life. Answering a higher calling, Johnny went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War—a sacrifice and service his family and community will always hold in the highest regard. 

For 58 beautiful years, Johnny was the devoted husband of his sweetheart, Margie. Together they built a marriage rooted in unwavering love and partnership. Their union blessed them with two daughters, Mandy and Missy, who were his pride and joy. As years went on, Johnny found his greatest joy in being “Paw.” His grandchildren and great-grandchildren knew him as a steady, loving presence, always ready with a story, a laugh, or a guiding hand. His love carried on into the next generation with his great-grandchildren, Aurora, Lucy, Mia Kate, and Hadley, who brought him endless delight. 

Johnny was happiest outdoors, whether casting a line on quiet waters or heading into the woods for a good hunt. The peace of nature and the thrill of the hunt spoke to his adventurous spirit and his appreciation for God’s creation. A devout Catholic, Johnny’s faith guided his every step. Whether in quiet prayer or through acts of kindness, he lived as a testament to God’s grace and goodness. Those who knew him will remember his warm smile, gentle humor, steadfast loyalty, and the way he always put family first. Though he has left this earthly life, Johnny’s love continues to shine through his family and all who were blessed to know him. His story is one of faith, courage, and love—a story that will live on in the hearts of his loved ones forever.

He is survived by his mother, Rena Duplechain, also of Port Barre, as well as his daughter, Melissa Duplechain, and her companion, Rusty Aymond, of Port Barre. Johnny took immense pride in his family, which includes his sisters, Donna Robin, Susan Ryder (Jeff), Gwen Barron (Raphael), and Julie Valin, all of Port Barre.

Johnny's legacy continues through his grandchildren: Brooke Abshire (Zachary), Jonathan Deville (Christian), Nicholas Curley (Lauren), Natalie Bennett, Celeste Sonnier, and Kenneth Brechtel, Jr. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Aurora, Lucy, Mia Kate, and Hadley.

He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Earl Duplechain, and his daughter, Amanda Rae Duplechain, his brother-in-laws, John Robin (Donna), and Greg Valin (Julie).

Johnny's love and devotion to his family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him, and his memory will live on in their hearts.

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