Hale 'Francis' Loupe, a native and resident of Morgan City, peacefully passed away Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Maison Jardin with his children by his side.
Francis was born in Morgan City on June 8, 1936 to Ayo and Odelia Templet Loupe.
Growing up humbled and underprivileged, Francis worked hard to provide a good life for his wife and his family. He was a jack of all trades, but had a particular passion for carpentry and welding.
While working in Texas, he laid eyes on the prettiest girl there and instantly fell in love. On July 22, 1955 in the sweltering Texas heat, he married Rosalee Flirt. Knowing his heart belonged to the bayou, he packed his bride into their rickety ole truck and drove home to Louisiana. God blessed their marriage with seven children, who then blessed them with nineteen grandchildren, thirty-two great grandchildren, and nine great-great grandchildren.
Armed with a dream and the support of his wife, he became a multi-business owner of World Wide Inspection, MC Fab, and Francis' Lounge. A man of integrity, he earned respect and made many friends throughout his career.
Always having a heart to serve others, he was a member of the Louisiana National Guard, a volunteer firefighter for Morgan City, and a dedicated parishioner of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. In 1984, he was King for the Krewe of Janis. He enjoyed going fishing with his 'honey' and his grandkids. No matter how old the grandkids were, they always knew Paw had sweets and treats waiting for them when they went to visit. Although we are at peace that our beloved dad and Paw is with Jesus, our hearts are broken, and he is greatly missed.
He is survived by his children, Frances (Troy) Driskill, Cecilia (Robert) Cardinale, Ellen LaHoste, Michael (Mary) Loupe, and Kermit (Susan) Loupe; grandchildren Rebecca (Edward Jr), David B. (Sherry Jo), Michele (Dean), David C. (April), Joshua (Amy), Cody (Tiffany), Nicholas (Emily), Emily, Kaleigh, Peter, Carmen (Taylor), Brianna (Chris), Mariah (Stephen), and Savannah (John); 31 great grandchildren with one on the way, and 9 great-great grandchildren; two sisters, Delores Kullman and Judy (Billy) Giroir; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
He was preceded into death by his 'Honey' of 65 years, Rosalee Loupe; his daughters, Nancy and Carmen Loupe; his parents Ayo and Odelia Loupe; grandson, Christopher Blair; sons-in-law, Ray LaHoste and Harris Acosta; brothers, Lionel and Floyd Loupe.
We will have a celebration of Life Thursday, March 7, 2024 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Visitation will be at 11 with a Catholic Mass to begin at 3. Interment will be at the Morgan City Cemetery.