John Anthony Vallien

Former Mayor John A. Vallien January 26, 1933 – May 23, 2012 Opelousas, Louisiana A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 P.M. Monday, May 28, 2012 at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Opelousas, LA, for John A. Vallien, 79, who peacefully departed, Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at his residence in Opelousas, LA. Interment will be in Bellevue Memorial Park in Opelousas, LA. Monsignor Keith J. DeRouen and Rev. Malcolm O’Leary, S.V.D. will officiate at the Mass of Christian burial. John loved his family, community, and country which can clearly be seen in the story of his life. He was a lifelong native of St Landry Parish where he received his primary education. Later, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Social Studies Education from Southern University. He enlisted in the Navy and served honorably before returning to his beloved St. Landry Parish to assume his career as an educator. Described as one of the greatest math teachers of his time, he rapidly rose through the ranks of the school system. He served as principal of Carter G. Woodson High School, Lawtell Elementary School, eventually moving upward to the position of supervisor in the school board. After serving 37 distinguished years he retired from the school system. In 2000. he was elected Mayor of the city of Opelousas. His term as mayor is characterized by his honestly and dignity. He is credited for laying the groundwork for many economic developments to the city of Opelousas. Mourning his departure, while cherishing his precious memories, are his children, one son, Don Anthony Vallien (Alishia) of Opelousas, LA.; four daughters, Angie Fields (Howard “Joe”) of Opelousas, LA., Lisa Vallien Moore of Jacksonville, Florida, Gina Readore (Manuel) of Opelousas, LA. and Tykee Jackson (Leslie, Jr.) of Birmingham, Alabama; nine grandchildren, Lindsey Payne, Katherine Jackson, Niyah Hampton, Michael Fields, Christian Moore, Antonio Vallien, Loren Jackson, Sterling Readore and Anderson Readore; a brother, Andrew Vallien (Theresa) of Natchitoches, LA; two sisters, Theresa Muwwakkil (Yusef) of Palmetto, GA and Audrey Noble (Charles) of Houston, TX; and a host of other relatives and special friends, who will miss him dearly. Mr. Vallien was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mrs. Gloria C. Vallien; parents, John Valien & Mary Wilma Mouton Valien; three sisters, Verline Juanita Guillory, Mary Wilma Angel and Laura Belle Morrison. Visiting hours will be observed from 7:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Monday, May 28, 2012 at Williams Funeral Home in Opelousas, LA. Reflections of Mr. Vallien’s life will be held from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. at Our Lady Queen of Angles Catholic Church. Share words of comfort with the Vallien family at www.williamfuneralhomes.net Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Williams Funeral Home of Opelousas, 337-942-2037.

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John Anthony Vallien

January 26, 1933 - May 23, 2012