Lafayette, LA (February 13, 2026) – The Diocese of Lafayette made the following announcement of the death of Father Gary Scheynayder: “With faith and hope in the resurrection of Jesus, we inform you of the death of Father Gary Schexnayder, who died last night at Calcutta House. He was 83 years old. Please pray for the repose of his soul and for those who mourn his absence.”
According to Father Gary’s obituary, he served 56 years as a priest, having been ordained on June 7, 1969, at Saint Francis Regis Catholic Church in Arnaudville. He was recognized for using a smiley face as a symbol of his ministry.
During his career, he served in multiple parishes throughout Acadiana, including Saint Peter in New Iberia; Saints Peter and Paul in Scott; Saint Landry in Opelousas; Saint Edmond in Lafayette; Saint Michael in Crowley; and Saint Elizabeth Seton in Lafayette.
View Father Gary Schexnayder’s Obituary >>
