Elton-Bro. Durffey Joseph Fontenot, Jr., affectionately known as Precious, was born in Elton, Louisiana on August 21, 1962 to Durffey Fontenot, Sr. and Geraldine McCrea-Fontenot. He was the first-born son to a group of four siblings.
Durffey was baptized at an early age by Rev. Joshua Frank at Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church of Elton, LA. He graduated from Elton High School with honors. During high school, Durffey became the first African American bank teller at American Bank in Elton. After graduation, he attended USL, known today as UL of Lafayette, where he pursued a degree in Chemical Engineering with a minor in Journalism. While attending USL, Durffey was known for breaking a barrier by becoming the first African American editor-in-chief at "The Vermillion". Upon graduating from USL, Durffey moved to Houston, TX and Channelview, TX, where he gained employment at a local newspaper. He definitely had a passion for writing and verbal expression. Throughout the time Durffey resided in Houston, TX, he held various jobs; among which were, manager at Blockbuster's and postal service technician. In 1995, Durffey moved back home to Elton, LA. He was a faithful member of Mt. Pilgram Baptist Church. He served in various roles as needed at Mt. Pilgram including bible study instructor, member of the mass choir, member of the male chorus, he assisted with the young men's ministry, and served as Cemetery Administrator for Eternal Rest Cemetery. Durffey had a burning desire to serve his community. He was elected to the Elton City Council where he served for twelve years trying to bring about positive change and promote growth in the community of Elton.
Durffey was employed at Basile Detention Center for twenty years as Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain. Until his untimely death, he was employed at Feather Fuel- a job which brought him peace and joy. Durffey will definitely be remembered for "telling it like it is." Everyone that he encouraged throughout his life's journey loved him and was drawn to his candid attitude. Durffey also was an avid lover of music to all genres. His knowledge of music was mind-boggling. Durffey will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Those left to cherish his memory are his sisters, Bridget Fontenot and Danielle(Leon) Simien of Elton, LA; one brother, Troy (Latoya) Fontenot of Beaumont, TX; one nephew, Kai Drayton and three nieces, Lakeisha Fontenot, Essence Fontenot, and Halle Simien. He also leaves to mourn a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, godchildren, friends, and neighbors.
Durffey, Jr. is preceded in death by his parents, Durffey, Sr. and Geraldine McCrea-Fontenot.
The family will receive visitors at Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church of Elton from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 16, 2016. Funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. Rev. Freddie Jack will officiate. Burial will follow in Eternal Rest Cemetery under the direction of Ardoin Funeral Home. Words of comfort may be sent to the family at www.ardoinfuneralhome.com