Jay Rabalais

Absolutely the most entertaining man that family, friends, and co-workers had the pleasure and privilege to know, Jay W. Rabalais lost his courageous battle with ALS at the BRGMC BB on Friday, April 6, 2018, at the age of 51.

Jay's quick wit and contagious smile were unlike anyone else's. His bravery and strength throughout his fight were an inspiration to many, and his larger than life presence will be missed by all. Jay graduated from Tara High School in 1984 and then pursued pharmacy school at the University of Louisiana Monroe. Jay loved and excelled in his career as a Registered Pharmacist which began with his pharmacy externship in 1993 at the BRGMC. It was there that he met his future wife, Marla Cornelius Rabalais. After his graduation from pharmacy school, Jay accepted a position at OLOL Regional Medical Center where he enjoyed working with his mentor and dad, Landry Rabalais. In 2005, Jay was offered his dream job with Oconee Memorial Hospital in Seneca, SC. After his 12 year career there, Jay was forced to retire in June 2017, two years after his diagnosis with ALS. Jay made countless memories over the years with his former tennis partners, LSU tailgating friends and with his family traveling and camping. Born in Arnaudville, Louisiana, Jay and his family recently relocated to Madisonville, LA.

Jay is survived by Marla, his devoted and loving wife of over 20 years, along with their sons; Brayden (19) and Collin (13). He is also survived by his mother, Stella Calais Rabalais; sister, Julie Rabalais LeBeau; brothers, Robert Rabalais and Lonny Rabalais; brother in law, Hilton LeBeau; father and mother in law, Glenn and Stella Cornelius; sister and brother in law, Michelle and Daniel Sisk; nephews, Gunnar LeBeau and Danny Ray Sisk; and godchildren, Mallori Lanaux and Zachary Fontenot.

He is preceded in death by his father, Landry Rabalais; paternal grandparents, Whitney and Cecile Rabalais; and maternal grandparents, Wade and Laura Calais.

Pallbearers will be Robert Rabalais, Lonny Rabalais, Dwayne LeGlue, Gary Alonzo, James West, Scott Fontenot, Scott Candella, and Eddie Lee. Honorary pallbearers will be Gunnar LeBeau, Mike Calais, John Rabalais, Gerald Miletello, Stephen Gordon, Terrence Dino, Rhett Bunch and Daniel Sisk.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to Jay's many family, friends and co-workers for their relentless support, constant love and never ending prayers offered throughout his illness. Jay's family would like to express their gratitude to Brandi Johnson, Dr. Stephen Gordon and the LSU Healthcare Network physicians.

Visitation will be at Resthaven Gardens of Memory & Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy, Baton Rouge, Sunday, April 8th from 5pm-8pm and will resume at 12pm Monday, April 9th until funeral service at 2pm.

To honor Jay and to fight the devastating illness that is ALS, please consider donating to the Louisiana/ Mississippi chapter of the ALS Association, 11725 Industriplex, Suite 3, Baton Rouge, LA 70809.

Visitation

Resthaven Funeral Home
11817 Jefferson Highway
Baton Rouge, LA  70816
Sunday, April 8, 2018
5:00 pm-8:00 pm

Resthaven Funeral Home
11817 Jefferson Highway
Baton Rouge, LA  70816
Monday, April 9, 2018
12:00 pm-2:00 pm

Service

Resthaven Funeral Home
11817 Jefferson Highway
Baton Rouge, LA  70816
Monday, April 9, 2018
2:00 pm

Cemetery

Resthaven Gardens of Memory
11817 Jefferson Highway
Baton Rouge, LA  70816