Lillie Mae Barras

St. Martinville - Funeral services will be held for Lillie Mae 'Dottie' Barras at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, March 7, 2012, at St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church in Saint Martinville., Dottie, 92, passed away Sunday, March 4, at Iberia Medical Center. Dottie was born in Baton Rouge and during early childhood, her family settled in Breaux Bridge where she spent most of her younger years. She married 'Pee Wee' Barras in the early 40's and, after working as a telephone operator in Breaux Bridge, Dottie went on to raise five children. A devoted mother, she made her children a priority and instilled Catholic values and encouragement in each of them. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored her. Dozens of years would pass and Dottie never forgot a birthday, even to those who lived far away. In 1974 when her husband died, Dottie was fifty-four years old. After his death, she worked as a clerk at the St. Martin Parish Clerk of Court's office. Dottie was a loyal and dedicated employee. She retired thirteen years later at the age of sixty-seven. Dottie was an articulate, intelligent, life-long learner. When she retired, Dottie checked out several books from the library each week. For years, she spent time working on crossword puzzles and watching popular T.V. news and entertainment programs to stay abreast of current events. Dottie loved and looked forward to daily visits from her children. She reminisced about the past, supported them in their life decisions, and often provided words of wisdom. Her wit and lively humor lit up a room along with her contagious smile. The Rev. Rusty Richard will officiate at the funeral mass. Readers will be Alicia Barras and Colleen Trahan Broussard. Gift bearers are Aaron Barras, Morgan Boggs, and Grace Boggs. Altar servers are Ty and Blair Theriot.