Earlin Fruge

   Basile~ On this day, we gather to remember and honor the life of Earlin, who graced this world on December 08, 1944, to the loving parents of Louis and Zula Sonnier Fruge. It is with great sadness that the family of Earlin Fruge announces his passing on Monday, July 08, 2024, at Christus St. Frances Cabrini in Alexandria, LA with his loving family by his side. He was 79. A mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Eunice. A burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery with Father Blaine Clement, Celebrant.

 From the moment he stepped out of high school, Earlin dedicated himself to serving his community. Whether it was through his work at Hollier Implement, his role as a farmer, or his dedicated service as the Evangeline Parish Ward 2 Constable and bus driver for the Evangeline Parish School Board for over twenty-six years, Earlin's commitment to others shone brightly.

 His journey led him to the Evangeline Parish Sheriff Department, where he continued to serve faithfully while also fulfilling his duties as acting Ward 2 Constable. Known affectionately as the "Friendly Neighbor" and his call handle EP 34, Earlin's infectious smile and boundless compassion touched the lives of all who crossed his path. His open-hearted nature welcomed strangers as friends and his generous spirit reached out to those in need without hesitation. 

 Earlin's legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him. A devoted husband to Barbara L. Fruge of Basile; a caring father, to Kim F. Walker and husband, Mark of Basile, Kellie F. Shipp and husband, Daniel of Sunset, Klint L. Fruge and wife, Cheryl F. of Abbeville, Katie F. Matt and husband, Justin of Basile and stepdaughter, Amy Johnson and husband, Mike of Roberts Cove. A doting grandfather to Caroline W. Fournerat and husband Jake; Ty Walker and wife, Gracie; Kade Sweeney, Wesley Matt, and step grandchildren, Jerik Thibodeaux, Jett Bourgeois and Stephen Johnson. He was also a great grandfather to Lana and Lane Fournerat and Copeland and Corbin Walker. Earlin wore these titles with grace and humility. The echoes of his laughter and the warmth of his presence will be deeply missed by all who were touched by his remarkable spirit.

 He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Lana G. Fruge; his parents; his brothers, Jimmy Fruge, Roland Fruge, Merlin Fruge and a stepson Phillip Young.

 At the request of the family, a visitation will be held at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Eunice on Wednesday, July 10th from 10:00 am until 9:00 pm with a Rosary being prayed at 6:00 pm by Father Blaine Clement and Knights of Columbus. On Thursday, July 11th visitation will begin at 6:30 am until time of services at 10 am.

 Carrying Earlin to his resting place are Mark Walker, Justin Matt, Daniel Shipp, Jake Fournerat, Ty Walker, Kade Sweeney and Wesley Matt. Honorary pallbearers are Klint Fruge, Michael “Patate” Sanders, Chad Francois, David Ardoin and Chris Cormier. 

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

 As we bid farewell to Earlin in this physical realm, we hold onto treasured memories of a life well-lived, and a soul deeply loved. May his gentle smile and compassionate heart continue to guide us in moments of darkness, reminding us of the enduring power of love. Rest in peace, dear Earlin, knowing that your legacy of kindness will live on in us always. 

 Ardoin’s Funeral Home of Eunice, 1301 West Laurel Ave, (337)457.3371 is in charge of arrangements.