Donald J. Breaux, former Lafayette City Marshal and Lafayette Parish Sherrif, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 87.
Breaux began his law enforcement career with the Lafayette Police Department before joining the Louisiana State Police in 1962.
With expertise in criminal investigation, Breaux moved through the LSP ranks, serving as a lieutenant with the LSP Intelligence Section and then as commander of the LSP Regional Narcotics Division until he retired from state police in 1980.
After a 20+-year career, Breaux decided to jump into the politics realm, running for Lafayette City Marshal in 1981. His predecessor was Dallas Broussard, who served as City Marshal for over 30 years. Two years later when Carlo Listi retired, Breaux ran for Lafayette Parish Sherrif, a position he held for four terms. Breaux retired in 2000.
“He was not only a mentor, he was my friend,” said Sheriff Mark Garber. “He was a dedicated public servant and was ahead of his time. Sheriff Breaux is part of the foundation that is today’s Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office,” Garber added.
“Sheriff Breaux was an honored and devoted friend and mentor to hundreds of men and women seeking careers in law enforcement,” said former Sheriff Mike Neustrom, who immediately succeeded Sheriff Breaux in 2000. “Don was loved and admired by all. During my years in office, I especially valued his insight and opinions. He recognized the importance of implementing national standards, leading his department to the first-ever nationally accredited correctional center in Louisiana. This push for professionalism set the bar for future accreditations to be pursued. Don’s influence in our community goes deep and his presence will be greatly missed,” Neustrom added.
Sherrif Breaux remained active in public service outside of his career, serving as a president of a member of the Louisiana State Troopers Association, representing 12 commanders and more than 1,200 troopers. He was also the chairman of the National Sherrifs’ Drug Enforcement Commission for the National Sherrifs’ Association. He received the Evangeline Area Boy Scouts Most Distinguished Citizen Award and was recognized as Outstanding Lawman for the state. In 2015, he was inducted into Erath’s Acadian Museum as one of Acadiana’s Living Legends.
Breaux, a native of Lafayette, is survived by his wife of 63 years, Anna Belle Richard, sons Frank (Julie), Tim (Monique), and Mike (Mary), nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Donna. The Breaux family would like to thank the staff at Woodbrair Southern Style Assisted Living as well as Lee Wood, Nicole Hanie, Tim Metcalf, Karen Stelly with Community Hospice, Becky Leblanc, and Don’s caretaker, Valarie Brown.
Arrangements are handled by Martin & Castille Funeral Home.