Gwenn LaViolette
Port Allen – Gwenn LaViolette, age 58, a self-described “poor Cajun girl from the swamp” passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Friday, January 5, 2024.
Gwenn, born in St. Martinville, Louisiana, lived a life of joy, adventure, and service to others. Gwenn rejoiced in her Cajun heritage, had a deep understanding of Acadian history, enjoyed Cajun cooking, dancing the two-step, and eating boiled crawfish.
She was an active member and Secretary of Louisiane Acadie and fostered connections with Acadian families in Canada. Gwenn grew up speaking French and lived as a caregiver with her grandmother who spoke only French.
She attended the University of Louisiana/Lafayette earning a BS/political science and a graduate scholarship leading to an MS/French. From there she spent a year in France teaching English at Le Mans Université.
Rather than pursue a doctorate in French, Gwenn joined the Peace Corps and taught English in French-speaking Cameroon. It was there she met her husband and told him “If we are going to get together, you have to find a way to get to Louisiana.” He did and volunteer work would become a recurring part of their life with years in Namibia (twice) and Rwanda. Teaching and service to others was a hallmark of Gwenn’s life.
She was a high school teacher for nearly 20 years and enjoyed teaching French, Louisiana history, and English. She remained in contact with many of her students over the years who loved her for a caring commitment to learning and her challenging expectations. Following her teaching career, she served as Director of Education at the West Baton Rouge Museum. After retirement, Gwenn indulged her passion for travel, kayaking and camping.
Gwenn was a resident of Port Allen and is survived by her adoring husband of 30 years, Reid Bates, and three children: Augustus, Emma, and Annalise Bates.
Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation on Friday, January 26, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Port Allen.
Visitation will be followed by a prayer service. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Baton Rouge Food Bank.
(Pd.Adv.)