Freddie Deblieux

Obituary

Freddie Deblieux, a resident of Greenwell Springs, LA, passed away at Our Lady of the Lake regional Medical Center at the young age of 74 on March 10, 2017. Freddie was born in Coushatta, LA to Elouise Adkins Deblieux on November 9, 1942. As a baby Freddie was adopted by "Sonny Boy" Deblieux who raised her, and she called father. Freddie was the oldest of 4 children. She is survived by her daughter Kimberley Harris Smith, Son-n-law Paul Hinson Smith Jr., step grandson Christopher Ryan Smith, son Wendell Preston Harris III, sister Molly Deblieux Hunt, brother Dan David Deblieux, and his wife Dawna Deblieux, along with many nieces and nephews, each having a special place in her heart. She is also survived by her little black dog Star, better known as Tar Baby to friends and family. Freddie is preceded in death by her mother, father, grandparents, Plinnie and Iva Adkins, as well as her brother, Barry Freeman Deblieux. Freddie was a storyteller, historian, adventurer, naturalist, comedienne, genealogist, hostess, and many other personas too numerous to mention. While she had two children of her own, her extended family included hundreds of people she mentored over a 34½ year career with the state of Louisiana. Freddie knew more about the politics of Louisiana than most elected officials, having worked at the new state capitol for 13.5 years. When she left there in 1994, she found her true home at the Old State Capitol, a building she loved and cared for as if it was her own. Freddie made it her mission to research and learn the history of the Old State Capitol, and share that knowledge with staff and visitors. It was not at all unusual to see Freddie come down the winding staircase in full costume and regale a group of school children, bringing to life the story of the building she loved. On holidays, she would dress for the occasion and hand out appropriate treats to visitors. Naturally, her favorite holiday was Christmas when Mrs. Claus would make her yearly appearance for "Santa in the Senate" and she would greet literally thousands of children and pose for photos all night. From weddings, to political debates, to social events, Freddie performed her duty as hostess, greeting every person who walked through the front doors for the simple reason, that is what a good hostess does; after all, she was representing the Old State Capitol, and Freddie took that very seriously. Freddie would be the first to tell a story on herself, and be the first to laugh, about her "crazy" life. She would also have other people crying with laughter while telling the story. Freddie loved people, and was interested in hearing about their lives to. So know that Freddie is fine and happy, sipping champagne, and playing with every dog she ever had. The flower in her hair will never wilt and she will watch over all of us in her own special way. Celebration of Freddie's life will be held Sunday at the Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, 1:30-2:30 in the afternoon. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Old State Capitol Foundation, 100 North Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70801. Special thank you to Dr. Luke A. Corsten, Neurosurgeon, and staff at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center.

Published in TheAdvocate.com from Mar. 15 to Mar. 19, 2017