A century can seem like a long time, but for Deacon Nolen Landry it’s a lifetime.
Deacon Landry was born Aug. 21, 1910, in Louisiana and raised in Port Arthur, and this Aug. 21 he’ll be joined by family and friends to celebrate his 100th year.
Throughout the last century he has made significant contributions to Jefferson and Hardin Counties.
He was ordained to the permanent diaconate June 18, 1983, at St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica, Beaumont, by Bishop Bernard Ganter. He spent 18 years as an active permanent deacon at St. Mark the Evangelist, Silsbee, and retired Dec. 31, 2001.
According to Deacon Jim Gard, he was a quiet man involved in several church activities, but when the announcement was made about the permanent diaconate, Landry was ready to sign up.
In a letter by Bishop Curtis Guillory, SVD, to Deacon Landry in December 2001, Bishop Guillory wrote, “On behalf of our good laity, our diaconate and presbyterate, I offer you sincere gratitude for the ministry you have given in Southeast Texas. To have served until your 91st year is indicative of your deep faith.”
Helen Chatagnier, Deacon Landry’s daughter, said one of his favorite parts of being a deacon was ministering to the young at heart in the nursing homes in Silsbee.
“He just loved the fact that he was able to serve the Lord,” Chatagnier said.
Deacon Landry is a father to two, grandfather to nine, and a great-grandfather to 24. He worked for Texaco in Port Neches and Port Arthur from 1928-1975.
Throughout the years he has also been involved in the Knights of Columbus, Serra Club, Holy Name Society, and Bishop Byrne Boosters.
Deacon Landry will be celebrating his birthday Aug. 21 at Cypress Glenn East, 4225 Lake Arthur Dr., Port Arthur, from 3-5 p.m.
