Vernon McManus

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Vernon Charles "Mac" McManus, 87 years of age, on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Surrounded by his loving family, Vernon was welcomed into heaven in perfect peace. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 pm on Friday, February 6, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Eunice. Rite of Committal will follow in the St. Paul Mausoleum.

Vernon, known to his friends as "Mac", was born on February 19, 1938, in Eunice, Louisiana. He was dearly loved by his family and those who knew him. Vernon and his sweetheart, Joan, met in Eunice, and both graduated from St. Edmund High School. They married on June 4, 1960, and after graduating from Louisiana State University (LSU), Vernon went on to earn his Juris Doctor from the LSU School of Law. Vernon and Joan moved back to Eunice to begin his law practice and raise their family in their hometown. They shared a deep commitment to serving their community and impacted many lives throughout their lifetime.

Vernon was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, the American Trial Lawyers Association, President of St. Landry Parish School Board, taught notary public law at LSUE, served as Eunice City Attorney, and was involved with the Jaycees and several other organizations and boards. He practiced law for over 57 years until he closed his office this past summer.

Mac was a voracious reader and had a profound understanding of history and human nature. His ability to remember details was unrivaled, and his stories were captivating. He was deeply spiritual and incredibly funny, and would hold court with his humorous anecdotes, keen historical perspective, and legendary dance moves.

He loved playing golf and was always in search of the perfect swing. He joked about playing on the senior golf tour and enjoyed his time in nature. He looked forward to his weekly card games, visiting with his breakfast friends, and supper club members.

Vernon and Joan began a family tradition of summer beach vacations when the grandchildren were young, which continued for many years. Paw-Paw's visits with the grandchildren were greatly anticipated as his story time was embellished with his unique storytelling flair, and his beautiful family prayer is treasured by his loved ones.

Vernon also loved the prayer of St. Francis and endeavored to be an example to others by submitting to God's will, offering forgiveness, and maintaining a positive outlook despite hardship and loss. His legacy of faith, service, love, and humor will live on through all who were blessed to know him.

Vernon is survived by his four children, Hilton Charles McManus and wife, Blanche, of New Orleans, Erin McManus Perek of Lafayette, Kelly McManus Buettner and husband, Russ, of McKinney, Texas, and Brian Charles McManus and wife, Melissa, of McKinney, Texas. He was adored by his eleven grandchildren, Allison, Blake, Lindsey, John, Gabrielle, Patrick, Paige, Brayden, Jordan, Madilyn, Flynn, and two great-grandchildren, Charlotte and Camille. Vernon now rests in heaven with his beloved wife of 56 years, Joan Schatzle McManus, his parents, Burleigh Benton and Hazel McGee McManus, his siblings, Hilton, Benton, Norma Jean, Ronald, and Timothy.

Visitation services for Vernon will be held at Ardoin's Funeral Home in Eunice on February 6, 2026, from 9:00 AM until the time of services, with a rosary being prayed at 11:00 AM.

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

Arrangements are entrusted to Ardoin’s Funeral Home of Eunice, located at 1301 West Laurel Ave, (337) 457-3371, where we find solace in coming together during this difficult time.

Memorial Contribution: St. Edmund Catholic School, 351 W. Magnolia, Eunice, LA 70535

Joan Theresa Schatzle McManus Memorial Scholarship, University of Louisiana at Lafayette Foundation, P.O. Box 44290, Lafayette, LA 70503      337-482-0718