Clarence Anthony "Sonny" "Mr. Cam" Mestayer Jr.

Clarence A. Mestayer, Jr.

By: T.R.L.

On Sunday, April 10, 2016, Clarence Anthony "Sonny" "Mr. Cam" Mestayer, Jr. passed peacefully at his home, at the age of 85.

Sonny was born in New Iberia on July 6, 1930 to Clarence Anthony Mestayer, Sr. and Marie Louise Gonsoulin Mestayer. Sonny was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mercedes Mestayer Landry and brother-in-law Shirley J. Landry; his sister, Sylvia Mestayer Broussard and brother-in-law Carroll Broussard; and brother-in-law, Martin "Marty" Postlethwait.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Norvelee "Norva" Brantley Mestayer; his children, Kent Anthony Mestayer, Mark Anthony Mestayer (Jenny Mestayer), Dianne Claire Mestayer and Catherine Sibert Griffin (Jason Griffin); his sister, Antonia Mestayer Postlethwait; his beloved friend George Lackey (Tia Lackey), and many other extended family and friends.

A native and resident of New Iberia, Sonny/Mr. Cam has been a staple in the business community since the early 1950's. He graduated from Southwest Louisiana Institute, now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, in 1951. Sonny was doing accounting work for Bienville Furniture and Manufacturing Company when he started work as a speculative builder. He built his first house in 1959, and the rest is history. Over the next 55 years, Sonny developed subdivisions, built houses, renovated existing structures and established a mortgage business.

One of Sonny's proudest accomplishments as a businessman was the 1994 purchase and subsequent renovation of Provost Cafe' & Bar (Armand's) located at 113 E. Main Street, which he later sold and is known as Clementine's Fine Dining and Spirits.  That project helped breathe new life into downtown New Iberia, contributing to the award-winning Main Street revival that ensued.

Over the years, it was not uncommon for local businesses/organizations to reach out to "Mr. Cam" in times of need, and in return his love of community would be evident.  Sonny was a savvy, fearless businessman with a heart, and he had a knack for making the seemingly impossible, suddenly possible.

On a personal note, Sonny was an avid health enthusiast, and enjoyed lifting weights even in his 80's. He was a passionate pro-life advocate. He was a friend that could be counted on, no questions asked. And he could tell a story in such a way that he could transport you right back to the event itself...and he was funny. Yes, he really was.

In his private moments at his home, Sonny looked forward to and took great joy in the little things; spending time with his cherished wife Norva, whether dancing, laughing, reading or just holding hands, treasuring each moment; sitting quietly by the fountain, sipping wine, or tending to his yard. Sonny really loved that yard... and his Saturdays with his dear friend and sidekick, George.

Whether he was a business associate or a friend, whether you knew him as Clarence Mestayer, Sonny or Mr. Cam, his bottom line was the same - get directly to the point and keep your word. Business was business. But if you were fortunate enough to be inside his personal life circle, then you got to see the good stuff. I, for one, am honored to have known him. Sonny's was a life well-lived, and well-loved. I'm sure if he could give you some final life advice, he would say "Let's eat dessert first!!".  He was a diabetic you know...well played, Mr. Cam, well played.

Special thanks to those caregivers who were diligent in their role of helping to care for Mr. Cam in his final months. Thank you to the nurses of Bridgeway Hospice, whose guidance and support was appreciated, and for the peace of mind that you brought.

Extra special thanks to Kizzy Keal with Garden View Assisted Living; your ability to balance knowledge, experience, and dedication to ensuring the preservation of Mr. Cam's dignity - up to and including his final moments - has been a priceless gift. Kizzy, you are an incredible example of love and light, and we will be forever grateful to you.

Active pallbearers will be Steven Mark Sargent, Karl G. Romero, George B. Lackey, Troy A. Hill, Richard Breaux and David H. Morris. Honorary pallbearers will be James W. Schwing, Attorney at Law, Thomas J. Landry, Calvin G. Segura, and Moses A. Hill.

Mr. Mestayer's funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 16, 2016, at 11:00am at the David Funeral Home Chapel with Deacon Wade J. Broussard to serve as the Celebrant. Interment will follow at Holy Family Mausoleum, 2807 Curtis Lane.

Visitation will begin on Saturday April 16, 2016 from 9:00a.m. to 10:45a.m. at the funeral home.

Family and friends wishing to express condolences can sign the online guestbook.

Arrangements are under the direction of David Funeral Home of New Iberia, 1101 Trotter St., New Iberia, 70563. (337)369-6336.