Wayne Thomas Champagne

St. Martinville - A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 PM, Thursday, March 26, 2026, at St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church honoring the life of Wayne Thomas Champagne, 57, who passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center.

A visitation will take place at Pellerin Funeral Home in St. Martinville on Thursday, from 8:30 am until 12:30 pm.

A Rosary will be prayed at 12:00 noon on Thursday.

Father Keith Derouen will officiate at the Funeral Mass. Readers will be Brielle Poche' and Chet Poche'.

Burial will follow at St. Michael Mausoleum.

Wayne, a beloved member of his community, passed away leaving behind a legacy of hard work, creativity, and a deep love for life's simple pleasures.

Wayne spent many years working in the oil industry, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic. In addition to his career, he was a proud co-owner of Mr. Bee's Carwash, helping grow multiple locations and becoming a familiar and respected face to many.

Outside of his work, Wayne had a true passion for the outdoors and the arts. He enjoyed painting and drawing, often expressing himself through his creativity. He loved fishing - especially aboard the Houdini - and found peace on the water. Wayne also enjoyed both playing and watching golf, as well as browsing antique stores, always appreciating history and unique finds.

Above all, Wayne cherished the time he spent with his family and friends, and his daughter, Madeline. He was immensely proud of all of her accomplishments and her zest for life; but most importantly, her strong faith and love for those around her. She was the light of his life. He will be remembered for his kind spirit, his many talents, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Wayne Thomas Champagne served his country honorably. He enlisted into the Louisiana National Guard (LANG) in 1986, right out of high school, and served as a Medical Supply Specialist in C Co. 199th Support Battalion, St. Martinville, LA. Wayne excelled in his field and reached the rank of Specialist, far ahead of his peers. In 1990, his unit was activated for Desert Shield, mobilizing to Ft. Polk, LA. It was during that time that Wayne was selected above his peers to augment the 15th EVAC Hospital, where he deployed to Saudi Arabia and Iraq for Operations Desert Storm & Desert Shield. Wayne served in a battlefield hospital that was vital in saving numerous lives during that war. His decorations and awards include The National Defense Service Medal, The Southwest Asia Service Medal, The Medal for the Liberation of Kuwait (Saudi Arabia), and Kuwait Liberation Medal (Emirate of Kuwait).

Wayne will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his daughter, Madeline Champagne and her mother, Genee' Champagne; mother, Louella Champagne; brother, Paul Champagne (Vickie); sisters, Amie Bulliard (Brett) and Shelly Poche' (Chet); and his fur buddy, Wilson.

He is preceded in death by his father, Ronald David Champagne; his niece, Ainsley Bulliard; and his grandparents, Willis and Rita Theriot and Weston and Merida Champagne.

Pallbearers will be Gov. Jeff Landry, Lee LeBlanc, Paul Bourdier, Doug Judice, Eddie Judice and Paul Champagne.

Honorary pallbearers will be Brett Bulliard, Chet Poche', Crawford Boudier, Ethan Poche', Matthew Bulliard, and Hunter Champagne.

Wayne fought hard for his life for 21 days and passed at Lafayette Medical Center surrounded by family and covered in prayer.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Trauma ICU staff at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center, as well as Baylor Scott and White Health in Dallas, Texas.

Donations can be made to Acadian Veterans Alliance.

Pellerin Funeral Home, 112 New Market St., St. Martinville, LA 70582 (337-332-2111) is in charge of arrangements.