Jessie Allen Michel

Jessie Allen Michel, 78, of Patterson, Louisiana, peacefully passed away on February 23, 2025, surrounded by family and friends, after a long battle with dementia. He was a husband of 51 years to Gloria Thomas Michel and a loving father to Letitia Marie Michel and Tori Michel Grizzaffi. 

Jessie was never one to draw attention to himself. He was a strong, kind, and patient man that loved his grandchildren, the outdoors, sports, and the LSU tigers. He was also an avid bowler. He and his wife met at the bowling alley and spent many seasons league bowling in Morgan City. 

A lifelong hunter and fisherman, he spent countless hours in the woods and out on the water. He shared his passion with his family and dedicated many weekends down at the camp with his wife and children. He made sure his girls knew how to fish and catch frogs, shoot a gun, drive a boat, and pick up a jug line...among other things. His love for the outdoors continued in recent years: He still found peace sitting on the porch in his rocking chair, soaking in the sights and sounds of nature. 

He was stationed in Germany for the Vietnam War and worked as a communication electrician. Although he spent some time at college in Monroe working towards an accounting degree, he moved back to Morgan City and used his military training to start a career at BellSouth. He enjoyed his job and met many lifelong friends that lasted long after his retirement in 2002. 

His job allowed him the freedom to participate in his children’s busy schedules, rarely missing events. He spent many years volunteering to coach whatever sport was in season. 

He was a man of many talents. He could build or fix just about anything. He rarely hired outside help and was always willing to help his friends. 

His first cancer diagnosis was in 1997. Throughout the last twenty-eight years, he has endured countless rounds of chemo, radiation, two more cancer diagnoses, surgeries, a stem cell transplant, and several more years of maintenance chemo. Each time, without complaint or self-pity. He never let his family see him struggle and continued to persevere, becoming just as strong as he was before. 

He was known for his quick wit and one-liners. His favorite was, “See you on the first...the first chance I get.” 

He is survived by his wife, Gloria Michel; his children, Letitia Michel and Tori Michel Grizzaffi [Matt]; his grandchildren, Ethan Blanchard, Tanner Grizzaffi, Gracie Grizzaffi, and Mia Grizzaffi; sister Barbara Michel Robicheaux [Dale], brother Jerry Michel, and brother-in-law Paul Vella. He is preceded in death by his parents Herman Michel and Mary Aucoin Michel, as well as his sister Beverly Michel Vella [Paul]. 

A funeral service is scheduled at Twin City Funeral Home on March 3, 2025. 9:00 am-11:00 am with graveside services to follow.