Perry Segura, Sr.

New Iberia – A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at St. Peter Catholic Church, 108 E. St. Peter Street, New Iberia, for Perry Segura, Sr., 96, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Entombment will follow in the Holy Family Cemetery.

The Very Rev. William C. Blanda, V.F. will be the Celebrant.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, from 4:30 pm until 8:00 pm, at Pellerin Funeral Home, and will continue Wednesday, from 8:00 am until 9:30 am.

Perry James Segura was born on December 14, 1929, in Coteau, Louisiana. He was a dedicated husband and father who adored his bride, Emma Lou, and their five children.

Throughout his life, Perry was deeply committed to service and community development. He became an Eagle Scout on March 2, 1945, a milestone that reflected the leadership, integrity, and determination that guided him throughout his life. He served as assistant scoutmaster for Troop 113 under Paul Schwing and later as scoutmaster for Troop 13, eventually joining the board of the Evangeline Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Perry earned his architectural license in July 1956 and devoted his career to designing buildings across the eastern United States, prioritizing local talent and reinvesting in the communities where he worked. Among his proudest achievements was designing New Iberia Senior High School, the first compact school built in Louisiana, which became a model for schools across the state.

He was active in civic and community organizations, joining the Lions Club in 1956 and later the Kiwanis Club, serving with unwavering dedication. He chaired the Mothers’ March of Dimes at the parish level and served as president of the United Givers Fund. Perry had a lifelong passion for recreation and community enrichment. He was instrumental in developing the Squirrel Run subdivision and golf course in New Iberia and invested in local bowling lanes to ensure they remained open to the community. He generously supported ARC Angel Acres, donating both land and funds to help establish and sustain the organization.

Perry’s commitment to recreation earned him the Distinguished Service Award from the State of Louisiana in 1987. That same year, he donated land to the Iberia Parish Recreation Department, and in 1989 he contributed 11 acres along with the Willowwood Tennis Complex, complete with tennis courts, swimming pools, a clubhouse, and other facilities. He also served on the department’s Executive Committee, a position he held with distinction.

Beyond community service, Perry was active in politics and education. He served for over 30 years on the Parish Democratic Committee, including 12 years as chairman, and represented the parishes of Iberia, St. Mary, and St. Martin on the State Democratic Committee for 24 years. In 1975, he was elected to represent Louisiana’s third congressional district at the National Democratic Convention and contributed to the revision of the state constitution. He cared deeply about the education of young people, donating equipment, uniforms, and even a school bus to local schools, both public and parochial.

Perry also served on the Board of Louisiana State University, further reflecting his commitment to education, leadership, and community.

A man who believed in action, Perry got things done and did not wait around. He had little use for the word “no” and expected the best from others because he expected the best from himself. He was driven and determined in everything he set his mind to accomplish. He enjoyed hunting around the world with his beloved bride, his sons, and his friends.

He departed this world on Mardi Gras — Fat Tuesday — marking the close of celebration and the beginning of reflection, a fitting and poetic farewell to a life deeply rooted in Cajun tradition and joy.

He is survived by:

Emma Lou Segura, his wife, Perry J. Segura II “Tootie”, son Chris Segura, son David Segura, son Colleen Segura Sims, daughter, and her husband, Jerry Sims

Grandchildren:

Perry J. Segura III “PJ”, Laurie Hebert and husband Michael Hebert, Charles Segura “Charlie”, Caroline Segura Gravois and husband Brenden Gravois, Barrett Menard Emily Bratton, Daniel Menard and wife Mallory Menard

Great-Grandchildren:

Collin Hebert, Ava Hebert, Barrett Menard II, Patrick Menard, Adalee Bratton, Rory Lynn Bratton, Sutton Charles Gravois

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Francis Segura and Levie Broussard Segura; his siblings, Pearly S. Babineaux, Amelia Segura Selph, Mildred Segura Gisclair, Brigadier General Wiltz Paul Segura, and Huey Frank Segura Sr.; his daughter, Therese Mary Segura, and his great-grandchild, Paris Segura.

Pallbearers:

Perry Segura II “Tootie” Chris Segura David Segura

Ray Escuriex George Segura Jerry Sims

The family extends special thanks to Sharon Deslatte, whose unwavering loyalty for Perry spanned 47 years; Mike Arcemont, for his devoted role as Perry’s caretaker; and his dearest friends, Governor Edwin Edwards, Gus Mijalis, and Sidney Triche, whose friendship, guidance, and support enriched his life in countless ways. They also wish to thank all the neighbors, friends, and loved ones whose presence, kindness, and generosity brought joy and comfort to Perry throughout his life.

Adieu, Perry. On t’aime fort.

Pellerin Funeral Home, 502 Jefferson Terrace, New Iberia, LA 70560 (337.365.3331)