Joseph "Blinky" Bertrand, Jr.

EUNICE ~ It is with heavy hearts that the family of Joseph C. “Blinky” Bertrand, Jr. announces his passing on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center with loving family by his side at the age of 87. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Eunice. Burial will follow in the St. Thomas More Cemetery with Father Sam Fontana, Celebrant.

Blinky, born on December 16, 1938, to Joseph and Armildy Fusilier Bertrand Sr., was a man whose life reflected dedication, humility, and hard work. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Blinky served his country with honor before embarking on a meaningful career as a Louisiana State Trooper as a Senior Trooper First Class. Known for his down-to-earth nature and simple, western spirit, he found joy in the open road, often driving 18-wheelers and hauling grain. Blinky’s journey was one of quiet strength and steadfast commitment, leaving behind memories cherished by all who knew him. His life stands as a testament to the values he lived by—service, perseverance, and the heartfelt pleasures found in everyday moments.

Blinky will be missed by all who knew and loved him, especially his wife of 64 years, Virginia Bertrand of Eunice; his son, Shane “Cowboy” Bertrand and wife, Ann of Eunice; his daughters, Gisele Bertrand Rasmussen and husband, Vince of Prairie Ronde, Summer Bertrand Ingram and husband, Gene of Eunice, and Gretchen Bertrand Miller and husband, Nolan of Iota; brother, Patrick Bertrand of Eunice; sisters, Freida Carter and husband, Andy of Pearland, TX and Eugenie Bertrand of Eunice; nine grandchildren, Adriana Rasmussen, Alyce Bertrand, Isaac Ingram and girlfriend, Shaylee Hindman, Lauren Rasmussen, Emma Grace Ingram and fiancé, Kolton Luke Franz, Wyatt Bertrand, Paisley Miller Ness and husband, Benjamin, Raegan Miller, and Hugh Miller; two great grandchildren, Blakely Ness and Brielle Nunez; as well as extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Martha Richard and late husband, Willie.

At the request of the family, visitation will be held at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Eunice on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 10:00 pm, and again on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 8:00 am until time of services. Father Sam Fontana will pray a rosary Tuesday evening at 6:00 pm.

Pallbearers carrying him to his place of rest include Isaac Ingram, Wyatt Bertrand, Benjamin Ness, Hugh Miller, Kolton Luke Franz, and Eliot Bertrand.

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

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