Irene Baugard Ortego

EUNICE- With heavy hearts, the family of Irene B. Ortego announces her peaceful passing on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the Carpenter House in Lafayette at the age of 80. A Celebration of her life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Eunice, followed by her burial in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, where Pastor Andrew Bates will officiate.

Irene was born on July 16, 1944, to the late Hatley and Grace Oliver Manuel. She filled her days with a variety of beloved hobbies, including sewing, completing puzzles, and coloring. Gardening was a true passion, as she often delighted in tending to her plants, nurturing them with love and care. Shopping and baking brought her joy, and in her younger years, she embraced the rhythm of life through dance.

Irene was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her legacy will continue through her loving husband of twenty years, Joseph Ortego of Eunice; sons, Joe Wayne Fontenot and wife, Janette of Eunice, and Dallas Fontenot and wife, Debbie of Carencro; step-sons, Stanley Prather and wife, Debbie of Ville Platte, John Ortego and wife, Alisha of Houston, TX, and Eddie Prather and wife, Dagmar of Houston, TX; nine grandchildren, Kim Fontenot, Brittany Fontenot, Sarah Fontenot, Dylan Fontenot, Melissa Fontenot, Jason Fontenot, Derrek Fontenot, Dakota Fontenot, and Devin Fontenot; six step-grandchildren, Kari Prather, Stanley “Pony” Prather, Jr., John Austin Ortego, Jr., David Prather, Anthony Prather, and Steven Prather; thirteen great grandchildren; numerous step-great grandchildren; as well as extended family and dear friends.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved daughter, Joanna “Tina” Marie Fontenot; her brother, Wilbert Manuel; and her treasured great-grandson, Elliott Drake Fontenot.

 In honor of Irene’s memory, a visitation will take place at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Eunice on Friday, October 4, 2024, from11:00 a.m. until 9:00 pm, and again on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 8:00 am until time of services.

 Family and friends are invited to share their memories and sign the guestbook at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com. Irene will be greatly missed, yet forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew her.

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