Louis LaVergne, 86, passed away on August 30, 2025 in Houston, Texas, surrounded by his loving family. Born on Christmas Day in 1938, in Basile, Louisiana, Louis was raised with humble beginnings that instilled in him the values of education, perseverance, and hard work. These lessons, taught early by his father, became the foundation for the life he built.

Louis grew up in Louisiana and later moved to Southern California, where he was drafted into the United States Army. He proudly served from 1962 to 1964 during the Vietnam era as a combat engineer and in signal. Following his military service, he settled in the Bay Area, where he began shaping a future that reflected the determination and resilience of his upbringing. Drawing on those early lessons, Louis established a successful career in the cosmetic manufacturing industry, with soap and shampoo production.

He later founded Contract Packaging in San Leandro, California in 1979. He played a key role in producing well-known products such as Jojoba, Naturade, and Skin Wash, and later launched his own line of shampoo and conditioner, called Prolone. Through decades of hard work and innovation, Louis built a respected career before retiring in 2004.

From an early age, Louis also developed a profound love for horses, beginning to ride at the age of three. This passion remained with him throughout his life and ultimately led to the fulfillment of his dream of owning a ranch in DeQuincy, Louisiana, where he raised Appaloosa and Paint horses. His admiration for the western lifestyle extended beyond ranching; he found great joy in attending rodeos, watching classic western films, and listening to the timeless music of the Rat Pack.

Louis was a man of principle — dependable, honest, and straightforward. He valued authenticity and was deeply devoted to his family, always present when he was needed most. He is survived by his children: Terrance LaVergne (Erma), Anita O'Hagan (Stephen), and Teresa Lomas (Aaron); his beloved sisters Earline Hampton (Ertis), Charlene Moreau, and McLedia "Mickey" Gradney (Mike). He was a proud grandfather to LeThaddeus, Vanessa, William, Marcus, Justis, Damon, and Tieson, and a great-grandfather to Logan, Nevaeh, Natalya, Nathaniel, Nya, Delilah, Marcelino, and Lorenzo.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Honore and Eva LaVergne; and siblings Louise Rougeau, Theresa Pollard, Douglas LaVergne, Andrew LaVergne, Albert LaVergne, Anthony "Bo" LaVergne, and John LaVergne.

Louis LaVergne was a man of strength who taught his family the value of perseverance, hard work, and dedication. To others, he was always there with an open heart — ready to listen, share a conversation, or bring a little laughter. His legacy of courage, love, and joy will continue to live on in all who knew and cherished him. He now rides into the eternal sunset, his spirit forever free. And in faith, he rests in the eternal peace of God's care, reunited with those who went before him.