Clara "Gidget" Borel Broussard

Breaux Bridge - A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM, Saturday, March 22, 2025 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church honoring the life of Clara "Gidget" Borel Broussard, 99, who passed away on March 18, 2025 at her residence.

A visitation will take place at the funeral home in Breaux Bridge on Saturday from 7:00 AM to 10:15 AM.

A rosary will be prayed at 9:00 AM on Saturday.

Rev. George-Bede Ajuruchi, SSJ will officiate at the funeral mass.

Burial will follow at St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery.

Clara "Gidget" Borel Broussard was born on October 22, 1925, in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, to the late Arvillien Borel and Josephine Esther Arceneaux Borel. As the eldest of nine children, she held a deep, unwavering love for her siblings-one that remained strong until her final breath. That same bond of love and unity was something she instilled in her children, ensuring they always stood by one another.

Clara met and married Clarence Broussard, and together they built a large, loving family. Through their union, they were blessed with twelve children, all of whom lovingly called her "Mom." But "Mom" wasn't just a title used by her children-her grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and even close family friends also called her by this cherished name, a reflection of the nurturing role she played in so many lives.

Faith was at the core of who she was. A devout Catholic, she was a dedicated member of St. Catherine of Alexandria Catholic Church in Arnaudville, Louisiana. She found great peace in praying the rosary, always keeping her family and loved ones in her prayers.

Clara was known for her generous heart and welcoming spirit. Her home was always open to anyone in need, whether they needed a warm meal, a place to stay, a listening ear, or wise advice. She had a way of making everyone feel loved, supported, and encouraged.

She had many talents and passions. Clara was an exceptional cook and baker, famous for her made-from-scratch creations that delighted all who were lucky enough to taste them. She was also a gifted seamstress, able to sew beautiful garments without the need for a pattern. She had a deep love for zydeco music and was a phenomenal zydeco dancer, bringing joy to those around her with her energy and grace.

Above all, Clara was well-loved and deeply respected. She touched countless lives with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to family and faith. Her legacy of love, strength, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Clara leaves behind cherished memories to be forever treasured by her loving family. She is survived by her beloved daughters: Delores B. Menard, Melissa Broussard, Linda Broussard, Evelyn Broussard, Glenda B. Dupas and Barbara B. Benjamin. Her devoted sons: Faris J. Broussard and Patrick Broussard.

She is survived by her dear brother, Mormon Borel, and loving sisters-in-law, Lillie Mae Broussard and Annie Borel.

Clara's memory will also be cherished by her daughters-in-law, Debbie Broussard and Catherine Broussard, as well as her son-in-law, Jamar Dupas.

Clara's legacy continues through her grandchildren: Thimpson Broussard (Angela), John Benjamin (Cassandra), Kellaye Broussard- Parker (Nelson), Paul Benjamin (Margaret), Toni B. Clarkston (Walter), Perry Benjamin (Patricia), Chad Menard (Rhea), Horace Benjamin (Annie), Gabriel Menard, Ernest Benjamin (Cynthia), Channing Menard, Roland Benjamin (Tanya), Russchell B. Geans (Jason), Herbert Benjamin (Yo Tonja), Rhonda B. Politte (Tim), Bob Henry Broussard, Jr., Kymberlie Broussard, Desiree Mouton, Faris Broussard (Dana), Darrell Mouton, Tanisha B. Williams (Dorsey), Shannon Mouton, Paige Broussard, Bryson Mouton, Payton Mitchell, Alexis Mouton (Brent Williams), Alisha Broussard, and Kayl Broussard.

She was also blessed with 47 great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, who will carry forward her love and wisdom.

Her presence, love, and kindness will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Clara is now reunited in eternal rest with those who went before her, including her beloved husband, Clarence Broussard, Sr.

She was also preceded in death by her sons: Michael Broussard, Russell Broussard, Clarence Broussard, Jr., Harry Lee Broussard, and stepson Bob Henry Broussard, Sr. Her daughter, Mary Broussard, also welcomed her into heaven.

She was also preceded in death by her grandsons, Michael Benjamin, Jr. and Elliott Broussard, as well as her great-great-grandsons, Peyton C. Broussard and Javen Begnaud.

Clara is reunited with her beloved daughters-in-law, Wanda J. Broussard and Esther A.Broussard, along with her son-in-law, Michael Benjamin, Sr.

She will be with her parents and siblings in their eternal resting place. Her parents Arvillien Borel and Josephine Esther Arceneaux Borel and her sisters Dorothy Landry and Thelma Borel.

She also joins her brothers in eternal peace: Alton Borel, Sr., Alcee Borel, Minos, Clancy, and Nelson.

Though her physical presence will be missed, the love, strength, and faith she instilled in her family will continue to be a guiding light. Clara's warmth, kindness, and devotion to those she loved will never be forgotten.

Pellerin Funeral Home (337-332-2111) is in charge of arrangements.