Charles Hudson Chauvin

Vidalia, LA – Services for Charles Hudson Chauvin, 88, who died peacefully surrounded by his loved ones Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at his home, will be Friday, August 31, 2018 at 1pm at the Vidalia United Methodist Church officiated by Clyde Ray Webber and assisted by Stuart Sherman. Visitation will begin at 11am until service. Charles Chauvin, affectionately known by his grandchildren and friends as “ChaCha”, was born July 10, 1930 and raised in Ferriday, Louisiana. He became a resident of Vidalia, Louisiana in 1956. His parents were Arthur Emile Chauvin and Blanche Alwood Chauvin. Charles graduated from Ferriday High School in 1948 and graduated from Northwestern University in Natchitoches, LA. He then earned his master’s degree in education from Louisiana State University including Plus +30. He married his high school sweetheart Dorothy Gillespie Chauvin in 1953 as they recently celebrated their wonderful marriage of 65 years. Charles served in the US Army for two years during the Korean War. His career as an educator began as teacher and coach at Vidalia High School later to become principal of Vidalia Lower Elementary and was advanced to Superintendent of Concordia Parish School System until his retirement in 1987. During his life, Charles served the community in various capacities. He served as a member of the Vidalia Town Council and Alderman; secretary and treasurer of the Vidalia recreation district; an active member of Vidalia United Methodist Church; and president of the parish Louisiana Teacher’s Association. His leadership touched not only the youngest but the adults who were a part of the school system. Throughout his life he maintained a quiet demeanor while his wisdom and influence gained the trust and hearts of others. He was often sought for advice as he had a way of saying the right thing without saying too much. He was open and had a genuine compassion for people with his constant nurturing and love. The Chauvin’s did not wait for retirement to enjoy life. They had a huge circle of family and friends with whom they lived life to the fullest with constant gathering, dancing, and travel. His most treasured moments were cooking for others and spending time at the lake. His memory will always remain in the hearts of family and friends. Charles H. Chauvin is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Arthur E. Chauvin, Jr., three sisters, Helen Chauvin Warden, Ruth Chauvin Saxton, and Blanche Chauvin Griffin. He is survived by two sisters, Emily Chauvin Massey and Betty Ann Chauvin Roden, one brother, Lawrence John Chauvin (Edie), his wife Dorothy Gillespie Chauvin, his three daughters, Suzan Chauvin Hogue (Dennis), Nancy Chauvin Laird (Bruce), and Jane Chauvin Opperman (David), his grandchildren, KateLee Laird, Hudson Laird, Andy Wilson, Emma Hogue, Paul Opperman, and MaryJane Opperman. Pallbearers will be Bruce Laird, Dennis Hogue, David Opperman, Hudson Laird, Andy Wilson, and Paul Opperman. Honorary pallbearers will be Mitch Ashmore, Arthur E. Chauvin, III, Charles Falkenheiner, Bryant Hammett, and Bill McDonough. The family requests memorials to be sent to Vidalia United Methodist Church or charity of choice

Charles Hudson Chauvin

July 10, 1930 - August 29, 2018