Jackie Wait Trahan

Jackie Wait Trahan, 68, passed away suddenly at 1:47 PM on Friday, June 12, 2026 at her residence.

Born on March 27, 1958, in Lake Charles, she was a lifelong resident of the community. She graduated from LaGrange High School and furthered her education by studying business at Delta College.

She began her professional career at Westlake Petrochem in 1986, where she dedicated 32 years of service as a maintenance administrator before retiring. Never one to slow down, she continued her career with Sasol, serving for seven years as a documentation specialist before enjoying retirement.

A faithful member of Trinity Baptist Church, she regularly attended Bible Study and found strength and fellowship in her church family.

Her greatest joy in life was her family. She was deeply involved in the lives of her children and grandchildren, rarely missing a ball game, dance recital, school function, or special event. Known affectionately as the family photographer, she was always behind the camera, capturing precious moments and preserving memories that will be cherished for generations.

She loved taking dance classes, listening to Cajun music, and traveling with her husband throughout the United States and abroad. Wherever she went, she brought warmth, laughter, and friendship. She was truly the life of the party-someone who could strike up a conversation with anyone and make them feel welcome.

One of her most remarkable qualities was her ability to make others feel comfortable being completely themselves. She was a trusted confidante who kept others' business and secrets in confidence, offering support without judgment and friendship without conditions.

Those left to cherish her memory and keep her bright spirit alive are her loving husband, Rodney Trahan; her mother, Sylvia Wait; her children, Charmain Fontenot (Josh), Marcus Trahan, Courtney Westerkamp (Jason), Derrick Trahan (Brandi), and Brett Trahan (Amber); brother, Dale Wait; grandchildren, Kelsey Cottle (Olsen), Brylon Fontenot, Hallie, Gavin, Cayman, and Beau Westerkamp, Grace, Adyson, Reece, Brock, Rhylee, Owen, Ava, Emma, Cruz, Elliett, Millie, Eli, Knox, Isaiah, and Banks Trahan; and great grandchildren, Benjamin, Charlotte, Theodore, and Eloise Cottle.

She was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Wait.

A memorial service will be held at 12:30 PM on Thursday, June 18, 2026 in the Johnson Funeral Home chapel in Lake Charles. Dr. David Rose will officiate. A rosary will be recited at 10:30 AM followed by a gathering of family and friends from 11:00 AM until the start of the service. Following the service, everyone is invited to Trinity Baptist Church Fellowship Hall for a celebration of life and comfort food.