Anthony Ackal

New Iberia - Anthony Ackal, a beloved father, grandfather, and cherished member of the community that he dearly loved, has passed away surrounded by his immediate family, at the age of 89 in Lafayette. Born on October 27, 1934, Anthony lived a life full of love, and joy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 pm, on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, for Anthony Henry Ackal, 89, who passed away on Friday, December 8, 2023, in Lafayette. Entombment will follow in Holy Family Cemetery.

The Reverend Monsignor Keith DeRouen will be the Celebrant.

Visitation will be Tuesday, December 12, 2023, from 11:30 am until 1:30 pm at Pellerin Funeral Home.

Anthony's greatest joy in life was his daughters and granddaughters. He adored them unconditionally and treasured every moment spent with them. His devotion to his family knew no bounds, and he found immense happiness in being a loving presence in their lives.

A native and lifelong resident of New Iberia, Anthony was born on October 27, 1934, to the late Elias Henry Ackal and Dola DeRouen Ackal. He was a graduate of St. Peter’s College and attended both Spring Hill College and SLI (now known as the University of Louisiana Lafayette).

Anthony had an extraordinary talent for entertaining others. He thrived on hosting parties and family gatherings where he could engage everyone with his charming personality and captivating stories. His storytelling skills were second to none, leaving everyone who listened enthralled by his narratives. On every holiday or special occasion, Anthony would gather everyone around to partake in the elaborate gift presentations he had meticulously planned for each person present.

Anthony Ackal leaves behind a legacy of love and inspiration that will forever remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He touched countless lives with his kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family. As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful life he lived and be grateful for the precious memories he left behind.

Please join us in commemorating Anthony's life and bidding him a heartfelt farewell as we gather to honor his memory. His spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all as we strive to embrace life with the same unconditional love that he exemplified.

May he rest in eternal peace, and may his family find solace in the knowledge that his legacy will live on forever.

Survivors include his daughters, Allison Ackal Herrera (Juan) and Ashley Ackal Dartez (Bob); granddaughters, Emily Paige Herrera, Ashley Kathryn Herrera, and Anna Catherine Ackal Dartez; nephews, David Smith, and Steven Smith (Veronica); niece, Susan Lalande (David); and the mother of his children, Mary Jo Manning.

In addition to his parents, Anthony was preceded in death by his twin sister, Emma Jean Ackal Smith, brother-in-law, Bob E. Smith; nephews, Bob Smith, Stuart Smith, and Craig Smith; and a great niece, Sydnie Smith.

Pallbearers will be John Ackal, Mark Ackal, Mitch Ackal, Bob Dartez, Juan Herrera, and Lyman Thornton, III.

Honorary pallbearers include Michael Doumit, Alfred Ackal, Mitch Kalifeh, Tommy Elzen, Lyman “Butch” Thornton, David Ackal Smith, and Steven Smith.

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