Elton-A Mass of Christian Burial for Della Mae Sterling Soileau, 87, will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elton on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 11 o’clock a.m. Rev. Fr. Jose Vattakunnel will officiate. Interment service at St. Joseph Cemetery followed by a repast at St. Paul Catholic Church Hall, Elton, LA. Della’s family will receive friends and visitors on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church from 8 o’clock a.m. until time of service with the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10 o’clock a.m. All Della’s arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ardoin Funeral Home of Elton.

    It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Della Mae Sterling Soileau, who departed this world peacefully at home on April 12, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on May 25, 1938, in the close-knit community of Elton, Louisiana. Della was a beacon of love, faith, and wisdom to her family and all who knew her. Della was the fourth child, and only daughter, of Jimmie and Irene Lemoine Sterling. Having lived in Elton her entire life, she often shared stories of her formative years that were rich with traditions and experiences making her the connection to the past and revered as the family's historian. Her vivid tales painted a picture of memories for her children and grandchildren, ensuring the legacy of the Sterling, Lemoine, and Soileau families would never fade. Della wed the late J.C. Soileau on September 1, 1956. Together they built a life of love and joy filled with family traditions and celebrations. Their 59 years together is a testament to family togetherness in times of life's joys, as well as heartache. An active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Della's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She lived a life rich in spirituality, embodying the virtues of compassion and devotion. Her home was adorned with religious statues, rosaries, prayer books, and the family bible, testament to her role as the family's prayer warrior. Della's home was the hub of family holiday celebrations, and get-togethers filled with traditions, laughter, and shared meals. Her culinary skills were legendary to her family, and her home-cooked meals were the highlight of her family gatherings. Her home was a place where the family could always find love and comfort. After years of being a housewife and homemaker, Della ventured out into the workforce, eventually retiring as a dealer from the Coushatta Casino Resort. She also took great pleasure in her travels with family to destinations including Europe, New York City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Disney World, Seattle, and Canada.

    Her absence leaves behind a void that can never be filled, Della Mae Sterling Soileau's life will forever be celebrated by those who were fortunate to know her. Her unwavering faith and dedication to family and friends will remain in our hearts as a guiding light.

    She leaves behind a legacy of love through her surviving children, Carroll (Terry) Gobert of Elton, LA, Lindy (Karl) Gatson of Lake Charles, LA, Donna (Donald) Mouton of Duson, LA, and Roslyn (Larry) Harmon of Kinder, LA, and brother, Curtis (Rena) Sterling of Lake Charles, LA. Her spirit will continue to shine in the lives of her 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Della was also a beloved aunt, cousin, and friend to many, whose lives were enriched by her kindness and generosity.

    Della was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughters, Evelyn Soileau and Cheryl Wilson, grandson, Garrique Soileau, and brothers Winston, Roland, and Wilton Sterling.

    As we say goodbye, we find solace in knowing that Della is reunited with her loved ones who preceded her in death, resting in the eternal peace she so richly deserves. Her spirit will continue to inspire us, and her love forever will be a part of us.

Pall bearers: Terry Gobert, Karl Gatson, Donald Mouton, Larry Harmon, Jon-Erik Soileau, Trevor Gobert

Honorary pall bearers: Kristopher Soileau, Terry Gobert, Jr., Brian Woods, Corey Caesar, Elijah Harmon, Dylan Harmon, and Matthew Gatson

    Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared with Della’s family at www.ardoinfuneralhome.com or on Facebook-Ardoin/Allen Parish Funeral Homes.