Charles "Chuck" Olivier

Charles Henry Olivier, "Chuck," of Houma, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the visitation at Maria Immacolata Catholic Church Monday, November 10, 2025 from 9:00 AM until service time at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at St. Francis Cemetery #2.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Constance "Connie" Olivier (née Ledoux); their six children, André Olivier, Mary Olivier, Constance "Connie" Olivier, Edward (Debbie) Olivier, Pierre (Alison) Olivier, and Phillip Olivier; 15 grandchildren: Simone Olivier, Angelique (Jonathan) Chauvin, Henri Olivier, Marguerite Olivier, Dr. Nicholas (Lisa) Rome, Christopher Rome, Charlotte (Gillis) Klotz, Ashley (Rusty) Lyons, Suzanne (Christopher) Aston, Joshua (Amber) Olivier, Adam Olivier, Evan Olivier, Anna Kate Olivier, Lexington Olivier, Catherine Olivier; five step-grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Chuck was a loving father, a beloved "Papop," and friend whose kindness and service touched countless lives throughout Southeast Louisiana during his 89 years. Born in Washington, Louisiana, he proudly carried the rich traditions of his French-Acadian heritage throughout his life. His early years also included honorable service in the United States Army, which carried him across the world to Frankfurt, Germany, before returning home to Opelousas, Lafayette, and ultimately Houma.

Guided by a deep commitment to caring for others, Chuck devoted his career to service. After earning his master's degree in social work from Louisiana State University, he began with the Louisiana Division of Foster Care Services and later served as Director of Catholic Social Services for the Diocese of Lafayette, leading programs that protected children in temporary care and provided housing, education, and support for unwed mothers. He also helped bring Acadian Ambulance to Louisiana in 1971, and thus began a lifelong friendship with the founder and his wonderful friend, Richard Zuschlag, establishing a lifesaving emergency medical service still relied upon by communities across the state.

In 1978, while serving as Deputy Secretary for the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Chuck was sent to Houma to oversee the opening of South Louisiana Medical Center, later dedicated to Senator Leonard J. Chabert, where he served as Hospital Administrator. The hospital became a lifeline for local residents by ensuring access to medical care regardless of financial circumstance. He also proudly supported his dear friend, Dr. Craig Walker, the founder and Director of the Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS), during its early development and opening, acting as Chief Executive Officer. In his later years, he served as manager of Ellendale Country Club, where he was instrumental in the construction of its new main facility. After retirement, he could often be found on the golf course or at PJ's in Houma, swapping stories and catching up with friends over coffee each morning.

A marvelous storyteller with a quick wit, Chuck received great joy from spending time with others. He treasured every moment spent with his family and loved ones, making his "rounds" around Houma, stopping by the homes of his children to visit and to find joy in even the smallest updates. He delighted in speaking French whenever the moment allowed and was deeply proud to share the language and culture that shaped him, a bond that endeared him to so many throughout the community.

His grandchildren will always remember the twinkle in his eyes as he played Santa Claus at Christmas, and the sweet, silly "Ti manette" game that never failed to make them laugh as children. His presence made every holiday brighter, every visit warmer, and every day with him unforgettable.

Though words could never express how deeply he is loved or the ache felt in his absence, his family takes comfort in knowing his legacy continues in the countless lives he touched. His presence, his laughter, and the simple joy he brought to every visit will be profoundly missed and forever cherished.

Tu es parti de mon regard, mais jamais de mon cœur.

"You have gone from my sight, but never from my heart."