September 23, 1945 – September 5, 2021
Terry “T” Jude Camardelle, 75, was called to heaven on Sunday, September 5, 2021.
Terry was born in New Orleans to the late Roy and Frances Camardelle. He grew up with five siblings.
Terry met his gorgeous wife, Bonnie Camardelle, at the Canal Bank Inn. Over the years, the young couple welcomed two beautiful daughters, Bridgette Camardelle Mendoza and Brandie Camardelle Braud (Christopher Braud). They celebrated their 54th anniversary on January 12, 2020.
Terry was a generous, loving and devoted grandfather to Raelynn Mendoza, Ramon Mendoza III and Crislyn Braud.
Terry was a member of the Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America, Louisiana Council of the Blind, treasurer of Indivisible Friends 404 Masonic Lodge, the KCs, Westbank JCs, Greater New Orleans Council of the Blind, American Council of the Blind, Council of Citizens with Low Vision International, Louisiana Elected Committee of Blind Vendors, executive director of RSVL, Inc., and Azalea Bingo Hall. He was also the owner of Lucky Lady Vending, Creative Boutique, Creative T-Shirt Shop and Nawlins Hot Donuts. He worked at Nicholson & Loup for over 17 years. Terry had been in the Randolph-Sheppard Program in Louisiana since 1978. He served as the Elected Committee Chairman for 15 years. As well as managing over 30 facilities in Louisiana, he also served as president of Randolph-Sheppard Vendors of America, (RSVA), Sagebrush, RSVL and Louisiana Council of the Blind (LCB).
Terry was an avid jokester with the kindest soul and the biggest heart. His incredible talents included wet willies, laughing, hitting people with his walking cane and living life to the fullest. He enjoyed watching his favorite football team, the New Orleans Saints, and listening to his favorite singer, Fats Domino. Terry made a huge impact on everyone he met, never denying anyone anything, and enjoyed giving to whoever crossed his path. He truly lived by his words, “treat people right and they will reciprocate.” In his later years, Alzheimer’s disease robbed him of his memory. During this time, he taught us patience and allowed us to show him a small measure of the service he had long showed all of us. Terry, loyal, strong and hardworking, was an inspiration and extended father to so many.
He was preceded in death by Jay Camardelle (the late Gladys), Yvonne Camardelle Morris (the late Lloyd), and is survived by Gayle Camardelle Coba, Betty Camardelle Rodriguez, and Allen Camardelle (Lori). He will be greatly missed and forever remembered by his family and friends as an entrepreneurial legend.