Cleveland J. "Buddy" Rachal, Jr.

Cleveland J. "Buddy" Rachal, Jr., a beloved figure in his community, passed away on November 9, 2024, at the age of 89 in Cloutierville, LA. Born on July 8, 1935, in Derry, LA, Buddy was a proud veteran who served in the United States Army, an experience he cherished deeply throughout his life.

Buddy spent many years working as a highly skilled butcher in Chicago, IL, where he was respected not only for his craft but also for his unwavering dedication to his work. After a long and fulfilling career, he retired and returned to the region where he was raised, allowing him to reconnect with his roots and family.

Those who knew Buddy remember him not only for his professional skills but also for his kind and generous spirit. On Saturdays, you could always find him engaged in automotive repair, lending a helping hand to family and friends in need. His willingness to assist others was a testament to his profound sense of community and his belief in the importance of helping those around him. He was a Chevrolet enthusiast and was always an owner of an Impala.

Buddy was a man whose warmth and love were felt by many. He dearly loved his family and cherished the time spent with them during gatherings, creating countless memories that will be treasured forever. In his leisure time he enjoyed watching Westerns and game shows.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Doretha Metoyer Rachal, along with his son, Darrell Rachal, and daughter, Beverly Rachal. As a proud "Paw-Paw," he leaves behind Andre Knox, Toussaint Knox, Milanie Rachal, Robert Cleveland "Lil Buddy" Rachal, and great grandson Kingston Knox, all of whom were deeply enriched by his presence in their lives. Buddy also leaves behind his siblings Mazie Beaudion, Charles Rachal, and Ray Rachal, as well as a very large extended family that includes many nieces and nephews who will carry on his legacy of kindness and generosity.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cleveland Rachal, Sr. and Emily Gallien Rachal, a son, Douglas Rachal, and siblings Doretta Balthazar, Ambrose Rachal, Corine Gaspard, Margaret Price, Floyd Rachal, and Elsie Christopher. Each of these family members will be remembered fondly as he reunites with them in rest.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cloutierville, LA with Father Christian Ogbonna serving as celebrant. Burial will follow at Cloutierville Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Blanchard-St. Denis Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 9 am until the time of Mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church located at 423 LA-495, Cloutierville, LA 71416.