Colleen Johnson Ardoin

EUNICE~It is with the heaviest of hearts that the family of Colleen Johnson Ardoin announces her passing on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at Opelousas General Hospital at the age of 62. A Chapel Service will be held at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at Ardoin’s Funeral Home Chapel in Eunice with Deacon Nash, officiating.

   Colleen was born on March 05, 1961 to Adam ‘Brother” Johnson, who preceded her in death, and her mother, Patricia Leonards Johnson of Eunice. Colleen had two children:  Crystal Gustin Prejean, married to Eric Prejean of Indian Village; and Adam Price Gustin of Eunice.  She is survived by her fiancé, John W. Lee of Lafayette; her sisters, Melinda Johnson Valenta and Michelle Johnson DeRouen, married to Jeffery DeRouen, all of Eunice.  She is also survived by her grandchildren, Harvey, Henry  and Braiden Prejean and Braelyn and Bentley Gustin, who she proudly spoiled every chance she got.

   Professionally, Colleen started out as a banker, but the career path that prepared her for her greatest contribution in life was working in home health.  That experience provided the background that allowed her to be the great caretaker she spent most of her life doing, taking care of her mother and father and her friends and loved ones.    Her presence and heartfelt care of those she loved will forever leave a mark on their lives.

  To her friends, she was known affectionately as “Weenie”.  She was devoted to being a great friend, anxious to share her time and devotion with each of them, making everyone feel especially loved.   No one more than her best friend for life “Dupe”, with whom she was joined at the hip.    She was considered a core part of Team Michelle, sharing so many quality times together over the years from Halloween to Mardi Gras in New Orleans.  God, forbid she catch one of the Muses shoes on Dupe’s watch.

   Everyone talks about Colleen’s cooking   There was never a special occasion without one of her desserts, and it was really hard not to eat the entire batch of peanut butter fudge which was one of her staples.  She always made the recipes seem so easy.  And she is one of the few who can come close to matching her mom’s famous crawfish etouffee. 

 She also enjoyed going to Destin and spending time near or on the water.  Many think that she and her family may hold the record on the number of cruises they have shared.

 When you needed her for anything, she had a ready answer, “Yazaa”….and she was always there.  She will be missed by all she encountered.

 At the request of the family, visitation will be held at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Eunice on Tuesday, May 23rd from 11:00 am until time of services.  A Rosary will be prayed at 6:00 pm on Tuesday.

     Family and friends may view this obituary and sign the guestbook at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com

     Ardoin’s Funeral Home of Eunice, 1301 West Laurel Ave, (337)457-3371 is in charge of arrangements.