Louis "Thomas" Nelson

St. Martinville - A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 PM, Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Notre Dame Catholic Church honoring the life of Louis "Thomas" Nelson, Sr. 89, a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and respected leader, and devoted servant to his community, peacefully transitioned on April 17, 2026, at Carpenter House. Thomas lived a life marked by service, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

A visitation will take place at Pellerin Funeral Home in St. Martinville on Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM. A Rosary will be prayed at 10:30 AM on Saturday.

A legacy of public service, Thomas was a man of purpose who dedicated nearly four decades to public service, in St. Martin Parish. He proudly served 12 consecutive years as the Mayor of the City of St. Martinville, beginning in 2006, where his steady leadership left a lasting impact on the community. Prior to his time as Mayor, he dedicated 26 years as a Police Juror, representing the Cade area and St. Martinville with tireless energy. He was widely known for his belief that true leadership meant showing up for the community every single day.

One of his most meaningful professional accomplishments was his diligent effort in helping to establish the Cade Water System. Through his determination and vision, he ensured that families in the area had access to essential resources-an enduring contribution that continues to benefit the community today. Thomas's influence was felt throughout the community, particularly through his instrumental efforts in securing funding to build and maintain the Cade Community Center.

As a bus driver for the St. Martin Parish School Board for over 40 years, Thomas touched the lives of countless students, and his kindness and dedication earned him the heartfelt admiration of the community. Beyond his role as a bus driver, he was the owner and operator of Nelson's Lawnmower Repair Shop and Service Station.

Family and Faith: Beyond his public titles, Thomas was known for his kind heart and generous spirit. He was a true advocate for helping people. He never hesitated to lend a hand, offer words of wisdom, or stand up for what was right. His compassion and dedication made him not only a leader but a trusted friend and pillar in the community.

He carried himself with dignity and humility, always placing family, faith, and service above all else. His legacy is carried on in the countless lives he touched, the progress he helped create, and his family, including his daughter, Lisa Nelson, and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Ursula St. Andre' Nelson; daughters, Francisca Taylor (Carrol), Lisa Nelson, Vonda LeBlanc, and Sherri Sigue (Lurry); brothers, Lloyd Nelson, John Nelson and McKinley Nelson (Nam); 10 grandchildren arid 8 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Louis "Cyrus11 and Bertha Singleton Nelson; sons, Thaddeus Johnny Nelson and Louis Thomas Nelson, Jr.; grandchild Kolby Louis Luke LeBlanc; and sons-in-law, Gregory Joseph LeBlanc and Mitchell Rochon.

Pallbearers will be Henry Lee, Lurry Sigue, Jr., John Richard, McKinley Nelson, Harold Pickney and Paul Wiltz, Jr.

Honorary pallbearers will be James Fontenot, Lloyd Nelson, John Nelson, Carrol Taylor, William Johnson, Kurt Guilbeaux, Eugene Olivier, Larry Duplantis, Guy Cormier, Mike Huval, Dennis Williams, and Jim Hebert.

Final Remembrance: Though he has departed this earthly life, his spirit remains alive in the hearts of those who knew him as a trusted friend and a pillar of the community. His legacy lives on in the steady progress of the city he governed and the countless lives he touched with his wisdom and kindness.

"May the work I have done speak for me."

Louis "Thomas" Nelson will be deeply missed, yet forever remembered for his service, leadership, and love.

Pellerin Funeral Home of St. Martinville (337-332-2111) is in charge of arrangements.