Leonard Wayne Gallien, 78, of Orange, passed away on July 29, 2014, at his home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 A.M., Friday, August 1, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Tom Phelan. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 5:00-9:00 P.M., Thursday, with a Rosary at 6:30 P.M. at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born in Natchitoches, Louisiana, on July 31, 1935, he was the son of Odom Gallien and Melissa Gallien. Leonard served in the Texas National Guard. He received his bachelors and masters degrees from Stephen F. Austin State University. He was a teacher, counselor, and Director of Vocations at Little Cypress- Mauriceville School District for over 30 years, later in life he taught History for 2 years at St. Mary Catholic School. Leonard was a life time member of the Little Cypress Lions Club. He was Lion of the Year for several years, past President and held almost every office. He was also a longtime member of The Knights of Columbus, where he was a fourth degree member. He was an Usher at St. Francis Church and trained as a Eucharistic Minister. Leonard loved fishing and went every chance he got. He also loved going dancing. He also had a love of travel he and Della went to many places. His love for his students was tremendous. Leonard never quite knew the impact that he made on his students and family. He will truly be missed by many.
Leonard is preceded in death by his late-wife Vernell Gallien; brother John David Gallien; and his sister Patsy Smith. He is survived by his wife Della Gallien; son Kevin Gallien and wife Tina of Tulsa, Oklahoma; step-children Richard Bonnin and wife, Julie of Kingwood, Don Bonnin of San Antonio, and Rita Monson of Orange; grandchildren, Tayler and Sydney Gallien; step-grandchildren Melany and Melissa Monson, and Katie and William Bonnin; and his brother, John Wallace Gallien and wife, Sharon of Dale, Texas, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Serving as pallbearers will be Kevin Gallien, Tayler Gallien, Don Bonnin, Richard Bonnin, John Gallien, and Bobby Wolfford. Honorary pallbearers are Gene Smith, Jackie Authement, and Jim Stimack.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis of Assisi Building Fund: 4300 Meeks Dr., Orange, TX 77632.
Condolences
Bridget Ladner
August 6, 2014
I graduated Little Cypress in 1968 and Mr. Gallien was the counselor there at that time I remember him to be so sweet and always had a smile. Saw him at a class reunion a few months back and I think he danced the whole night. He was so cute I'm sorry to hear about Mr. Gallien and my prayers are with you Bridget Ladner
Sherri Hardesty
August 4, 2014
love and hugs to all regarding mr galliens passing -he will be tremendously missed
Claybar Funeral Home
August 1, 2014
Claybar Funeral Homes created a Tribute Video in memory of Leonard Wayne Gallien
Sandra Mcadams
July 31, 2014
Della, Kevin and family: George and I send our deepest sympathies to each of you. Leonard was a wonderful person and I was always so happy he was part of our beloved family. He will surely be missed. He always had a smile and a nice compliment. May God bless each of you and sustain you through this difficult period. Love, Sandy Pugh McAdams
Anonymous
July 31, 2014
Secret Garden Basket was purchased for the family of Leonard Wayne Gallien .
Anonymous
July 31, 2014
Strength & Solace Spray was purchased for the family of Leonard Wayne Gallien .
Lynda Idleman, Phd
July 31, 2014
Mr. Gallien was my eighth-grade science teacher in 1964! He was a great teacher! Lynda Idleman, PhD Atlanta, GA
Rosemary, Charles And Shon Hodgkinson
July 31, 2014
One of the good guys ! He will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Our deepest sympathy, Charles, Rosemary and Shon Hodgkinson.
John Rayburn
July 30, 2014
I had the privilege of attending high school with John David Gallien and then working with Leonard for many years at LC-M. You knew you were going to get a smile anytime you saw Leonard coming. As an advocate for his students he was relentless in seeking what was best for them. He reached the mark toward which all educators should strive. He made a difference.
Anonymous
July 30, 2014
Lily and Rose Tribute Spray was purchased for the family of Leonard Wayne Gallien .
Phyllis Mccall
July 30, 2014
He was such an awesome young man, friend and teacher. He will be dearly missed. I pray everyone will lean on GOD for comfort and strength. Just know you have a very, very special angel watching over you. May GOD bless you and be with you always.
Joann Sparacino
July 30, 2014
I called him Papa G. We worked together at St. Mary, and he was amazing. I will always remember his positive manner and sweet smile.
Carolyn Spiers
July 30, 2014
We couldn't have asked for a better neighbor nearly forty years ago when we moved to Orange. We will certainly miss Leonard, especially the way he would hop on that lawn mower at high noon! Carolyn & Edward Spiers