Mayola Espree, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Sept. 19, 2025. Born in Ville Platte, to Lucille and Anatole Belair Fontenot, she was their only child and a source of great joy. Mayola devoted her life to caring for her family. A fantastic cook, she shared her love through countless meals and passed her culinary talents to her daughters. She later worked in healthcare, extending her compassion to others. She found happiness in simple joys, time with loved ones, the ocean on a sunny day, and anything in shades of purple. Known for her straightforward nature, sharp memory, and humor, she had a gift for turning life’s moments into stories of laughter. Her grandchildren, especially, treasured memories of her music, storytelling, and playful retelling of Finding Nemo. Preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Gurvis Espree, Mayola leaves behind four daughters, Anita Cosay (Herbert), Aundrea Tindal (Fred), Jeanell Frelot (Wallace), and Naomi Espree; 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren with two more on the way, and a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Her family celebrates her life with gratitude, remembering her love, strength, and faith. Her service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 Stevens’ Funeral Home. Visitation is Saturday at 9 a.m.
