James “Pop” Harold Chachere Sr. passed away on September 17, 2022 in New Orleans. Pop, 88, was surrounded by family members in his last moments.
In death, he joins his beloved wife of 64 years, Hilda Lee Cole Chachere, who died in 2019. He is also preceded in death by his brothers: Gerald, Ryan, Charles, Shirley and Huey Chachere; as well as his son James H. Chachere Jr. Pop is survived by children Debra Jean Chachere and Scott A. Chachere; grandchildren Scotti Haydel (wife of Greg Haydel) and Whitney Jean Gomez (wife of Dr. Andrew Chapple); great-grandchildren Charli, Beaux and Sloan Haydel; and siblings Bettye Mack and Joseph “Buzz” Dare.
Pop was born on August 12, 1934, in Opelousas to his late parents Adam Ryan Chachere and Mary Alice Haw Chachere. He served two years active duty and three years ready reserve duty with the US Army at Fort Polk, LA. He worked for Tidewater, Getty Oil, and Texaco as a draftsman until retirement.
Pop was outgoing and loved by friends. He took an active role in “the Goofs”, “Jolly Jeff”, KC Council 4222, and the Int'l Order of Alhambra Darro #29 social clubs. He loved organizing events for these groups, cooking meals to share with friends, and telling stories about his life. Pop was always the first to arrive, last to leave, and was a true treasure to all that knew him. He was selfless and would help anyone in need. Pop loved hunting in Krotz Springs and Poplarville, and fishing at his camp in Westwego.
Most of all, Pop loved his wife Hilda. He was devastated after her passing in 2019; telling renditions of their love story to family, friends, and anyone willing to listen. It was painfully clear how much he missed her, and his family finds peace knowing they are now reunited.
Pop will have visitation Friday, September 23, from 3-5PM with a Rosary at 3 PM followed by a service at 5PM, at Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 WESTBANK EXPRESSWAY, in Harvey. Later, he will be buried in a private ceremony next to his beloved wife Hilda and their late son James.