Rayford Joseph Meche

Rayford J. Meche, 75, of DeQuincy, passed away on January 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 29, 1950 to Gilbert “Tatoo” and Irene Francois Meche.

Rayford was an honest, hardworking man who lived life with grit, humor, and integrity. He was a gifted storyteller with a dry, matter-of-fact wit and was known for saying exactly what he meant. One of his favorite sayings summed him up best: “The truth hurts, but it’s still the truth.” He was a man who valued hard work, family, and faith above all else.

Rayford graduated from Hathaway High School and later attended LSU. In 1978, he married the love of his life, Annette Broussard Meche, and together they shared 47 years of marriage. He worked many years as a pipe fitter and maintenance supervisor at Firestone, LyondellBasell, and Phillips 66, earning respect through his work ethic and leadership.

A devout Catholic and ACTS brother, Rayford lived his faith quietly and faithfully. His greatest passions were rooted in the outdoors and the life he was raised to know. He grew up on a farm with horses and running cattle—work that shaped him and never left his heart. After retirement, he returned to that life, raising cattle and breeding horses. He often said retirement was “the best job I’ve ever had.”

Rayford’s absolute favorite pastime was hunting with dogs, especially rabbit hunting with beagles. He loved hunting deer and rabbits with hounds and spent countless days in the woods with his wife and sons. He was also an avid camper, rarely without a travel trailer, and spent many nights camping with a large group of friends and family. Though he didn’t care for fishing, he loved to cook, and his catfish couvillion was a family favorite.

Rayford is survived by his wife, Annette Meche; his sons, Sean Meche (Kendra) and Justin Meche (Julie-Beth); and his grandchildren, Mason Meche, John-Paul Meche, and Jackson Meche. He is also survived by his siblings, Ellina Richard, Carolyn Witherwax, Stella Meche, Lily Bunderson (Doyle), Diana Landry (Steve), David Meche (Dianna), Norma Vidrine (Paul), Mona Morris (Donnie), Brent Meche (Bonnie), and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Charlotte McGuire; and his brother, Kenneth “Keno” Meche.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. with visitation starting 8:30am at Johnson Funeral Home in Moss Bluff, with a graveside service to follow at New Ritchie Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary at 6:30 p.m.

Thanks to all the medical professionals and staff, especially to St. Pat’s ER and ICU staff who were so caring in his last hours, in particular Dr. Tehran.