Allene Estelle Coussan

Funeral Services will be held at 10 AM Friday, February 9, 2007 at Delhomme Funeral Home's Chapel of the Flowers honoring Allene Estelle Coussan, 85, who died Sunday, February 4, at her residence. Msgr. Glen Provost will celebrate the Mass and conduct funeral services. Survivors include: her children, Joan Cecile St. Pe and her husband Michael St. Pe, Stephen Carl Coussan and his wife Diane S. Coussan; five grandchildren, Regan Jean Coussan, Stephen Andre Coussan, Clair Cecile Coussan, Edward Paul Coussan, and Jacqueline Clair St. Pe; and one great-grandchild, Sage Rippas. She was preceded in death by her husband of 30 years, Stephen Albert Coussan, her brother Earl H. Selser, and her parents Phillip H. and Allene N. Selser. Mrs. Coussan was born Allene Estelle Selser on December 22, 1921. She graduated from St. Vincent's Academy in Shreveport before earning her BA and Master's degrees from Louisiana State University. After graduation, she taught in Orleans and St. Bernard Parishes and subsequently for over 40 years in Lafayette Parish at Carencro High School, Scott High School, Lafayette Jr. High, and L.J. Alleman Middle. After retirement, she remained active in the profession and was a highly sought-after substitute and special contract teacher, and as a judge and advisor in many social studies fairs and competitions on the local and state levels. She was Mrs. Coussan to the English and Social Studies students she guided for nearly half a century. A dedicated professional, she eventually taught children of many of her original young scholars, instructing, molding and encouraging two generations to reach for their dreams through a love of learning. A 'Master Teacher' in every sense of the term, she represented a level of professional dedication and love of her students that is all too rare today. To her legion of colleagues and friends, she was simply 'Estelle', who could always be counted on for a kind word, a helping hand, or an encouraging gesture. She maintained and treasured relationships with her school and college classmates, with Kappa Kappa Iota professional sorority, and her Retired Teachers organization. She was an enthusiastic member of the Red Hats and Golden Girls, rarely missing an event. Never shy about expressing her opinions, Estelle played an active role in local, state, and national politics, especially in local school board activities and issues that affected education. Estelle was deeply religious and lived her Catholic faith to the fullest. She taught religion for many years and treasured her 'Share the Word' scripture study group and greatly admired her friend Msgr. Provost. She was the very embodiment of what it means to be a Christian and a Catholic. Estelle became 'Nana' to our children and to their friends and associates, a third generation who benefited from her wisdom and love. She had an elegant style all her own with a playful twist. She was proud of every family member's accomplishments, leading the cheers at sport events and standing ovations at concerts and commencements. She was quick to tell where we went wrong, but equally quick with lavish praise and love, which she showered upon those around her. Estelle will be greatly missed by her profession, community, friends and family. Estelle's family invites all of her friends and colleagues to join them in celebrating this wonderful life. Visitation will take place at Delhomme funeral home from noon to 8 p.m., February 8 and from 8 a.m. until time of service February 9. Personal condolences may be sent to the Coussan family at www.delhommefuneralhome.com. Delhomme Funeral Home, 1011 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette, LA is in charge of all funeral arrangements.

Allene Estelle Coussan

December 22, 1921 - February 4, 2007