James Fontenot

James Arlen Fontenot
James Arlen Fontenot, of Orange, TX, passed away peacefully the evening of Friday, April 29th, in Round
Rock, TX, to the sound of his favorite Hank Williams song, “Fun on the Bayou.” He was a loving and
devoted husband, adoring father, grandfather, great grandfather, and intense lover of life.

James was born in Washington, Louisiana on October 17, 1934 to the late Raul Simon “RS” Fontenot and
Ada Brignac Fontenot. He was the third and youngest of their children. RS and Ada moved James, his
brother Ray, and sister Wilana, “Willie,” to Orange in 1940 where James attended St. Mary’s Catholic
School. James and the love of his life, Janet, were married in August of 1955. James and Janet were the
proud parents of three children, Rhonda, Richard and April.

James was a hard worker and stayed active throughout all of his life. He served in the Texas National
Guard, owned The Shoe Castle, a local Orange business, with his wife Janet, and was an employee at the
DuPont Sabine River Works Plant for thirty-three years. James often gave selflessly and tirelessly to
individuals in need and to local community organizations such as being the driving force behind what has now become the City of Orange boat ramp.

James was known for his enthusiasm for life and love of celebrations. He often quoted the French saying
“Laissez les bons temps rouler!” or “Let the good times roll!”. James loved dancing, cooking, and
spending time with family and friends. Never meeting a stranger, he introduced himself as, "James -
Crocodile' Fontenot, from Washington, Louisiana!". Always, with a big smile.

Upon retirement, James and Janet traveled the world together. The two enjoyed experiencing the cultures
of each place they visited. James loved to share their adventures through photos and stories. He always
encouraged fellow travelers to take the “scenic route” and enjoy the view.

When they were not traveling, James and Janet enjoyed tending to their garden which was filled with
beautiful flowers, delicious vegetables, herbs, and teaming with wildlife. James enjoyed sharing his garden
with guests who were invited to visit on the back porch.

James truly cherished his relationships with his friends and family and he made a concerted effort to keep
his loved ones connected. James enjoyed sharing photos and sending news of family updates through
phone calls, emails, Facebook, and Facetime.

James was a supportive presence for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchild with his calm
demeanor and listening ear. James’ zest for life will truly be missed and carried on in his family's hearts.

James is survived by his wife, Janet Crew; daughter, Rhonda Hohmann and her husband, Rusty; son,
Richard Fontenot and his fiancé, Rose Smith; daughter, April Carroll and her wife, Lee; grandchildren,
Gerald Riedmueller, Jr. and his wife, Amber; Warren Riedmueller; Leslie Edwards and her husband,
Joseph; Haley Peck and her fiancé, Derek Law; Elissa Fontenot; Taylor Yarbrough; and great grandchild,
Noah Peck.

In celebration of James’ life, a visitation service will be held Tuesday, May 3rd at Claybar Funeral Home
in Orange, Texas from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. A funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday,
May 4th at 1:00 p.m. at Saint Mary Church with burial at Saint Mary Catholic Cemetery. A gathering of
friends and family will be held at Saint Mary Parish Hall after the burial.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Saint Mary School Foundation at 912 West
Cherry Street in Orange, Texas, 77630.