Roylene Fontenot, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and beloved member of her community, passed away on July 14, 2025, in Beaumont, Texas, at the age of 76. Born on November 14, 1948, in Port Arthur, Texas, she was the daughter of Roy and Ruby Wolford, who preceded her in death.
Roylene dedicated over 20 years of her life to serving the Port Arthur Independent School District as a secretary, where she made a profound impact on the students, faculty, and staff alike. Her warm personality and unwavering commitment to her work earned her the admiration and respect of all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
A proud graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, Roylene was active in her school community as a member of the esteemed Red Hussers. Her education and experiences shaped her into the passionate person she became, continuing her service beyond her professional life into her spiritual community. As a parishioner of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, she not only attended but actively participated in various church activities, including serving on the Bereavement Committee, demonstrating her compassion and dedication to helping those in need.
Roylene's life was richly woven with love and family. She shared 58 wonderful years of marriage with her dear husband, Dale Fontenot. Together, they raised two daughters, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy to her life.
In her free time, Roylene found peace and fulfillment in her hobbies. Her love for gardening filled her home and family with beauty, and she enjoyed the creative outlet of painting ceramics. Known for her kind heart, she engaged in meaningful endeavors, such as knitting hats for the homeless in Beaumont, an act that resonated deeply with her compassionate spirit.
She is survived by her loving husband, Dale Fontenot; daughters Shawn Rooney Gray and her husband Daryl, and Toni Hebert and her husband Kent; grandchildren Nathan Rooney, Joshua Dale Hebert and his wife Ali, Brian Joseph "Joey" Hebert and his wife Alura, Caroline Casio and her husband Jake, and William Gray; her two great-grandchildren; and her brother Jim Wolford and his wife Nancy and numerous nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held in her honor on July 19, 2025, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 2:30 PM, at Melancon Levingston Funeral Home, 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas, 77627.
As we gather to remember Roylene, let us celebrate a life well-lived—one that defined love, service, and family. Her spirit will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know her.
In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in honor of Roylene.