Rene' Francis Delahoussaye, Jr.

René Francis Delahoussaye Jr., passed away following a brief illness on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of family, faith, friendship, and service. Born in New Iberia on June 12, 1951, he was the oldest of seven children born to René Sr., and Mercedes Delahoussaye.

René grew up surrounded by extended family and friends and took great pride in being a graduate of Catholic High School in New Iberia Class of 1969. He was selected to represent his school in several sports, including track and field, where he held the school record in the 100 yard dash. After graduation, René pursued his academic career at the University of Southwestern Louisiana and the University of Texas-Southwestern Medical School, earning a degree in physical therapy.

René married his high school sweetheart, Tonda, whom he adored his entire life. The couple chose to make Denham Springs their home, where they raised their three daughters, Yvette Subramanian (Vivek), Monique Nolan (Michael), and Valarie Welton (Aric). Rene loved being a father to his three girls, but even that love could not compare to the joy he felt in being a devoted grandfather to Kush, Gage, Sinclair, Emery, Russell, Graham, and Jude. He never missed an opportunity to attend a grandchild’s sporting event, birthday party, or school concert.

Following his arrival in Denham Springs, he opened his physical therapy office, Capitol Therapy, and worked tirelessly to provide his patients with excellent compassion and care. He later owned and helped grow Save A Back, a business dedicated to preventing workplace injuries, into an international company.

René fully embraced his life in Denham Springs and served the community in many capacities. He was elected twice to the Denham Springs City Council and was an active member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where he celebrated his deep faith with others. In addition, René volunteered many years as an athletic trainer for the Denham Springs High School football team, combining his passion for sports with his desire to help others succeed.

After retiring, René spent his years traveling and visiting family and friends all over the world. His retirement allowed him to generously offer his home to family for reunions, to friends for dinner and games, and to any person who was lucky enough to stop by for a quick chat that invariably turned into a coffee and long conversation. René always made others feel welcome. He had a remarkable ability to keep people connected and became the glue for his family much the way he was for his lifelong friends. His selflessness and love was felt by everyone with whom he interacted.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the doctors, nurses, therapists, and staff at Our Lady of the Lake Neurology Intensive Care Unit for caring for René with dignity and compassion. The family also acknowledges the grace and guidance given to them by the members of the Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to please be made in René’s memory to Louisiana Organ Procurement Agency at www.lopa.org or to Catholic High School in New Iberia at www.chspanthers.com. A memorial celebration will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Denham Springs on Saturday, October 31, 2026. Visitation is from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by a mass of Christian burial at 10:30 a.m. Private interment will be at a later date.