J. Hugh Larriviere

Dr. J. Hugh Larriviere, a beloved physician and cherished friend, passed away on September 17, 2026 at the age of 91.

Hugh often said, “Love is paid by love alone” and these words beautifully reflected the way he lived. He loved life, he loved people, and he treasured the friendships and moments that brought laughter and joy to his days.

Hugh graduated from LSU Medical School in 1961 and became an orthopedic surgeon during the “good ole days” of medicine, when being on call meant caring for patients throughout the entire city. He was a compassionate physician with a wonderful sense of humor and a genuine gift for making people feel heard. His dedication to others continued through his volunteer work with Hospice of Acadiana, where he received the Dave Ramagosa Award for Exemplary Service.

An enthusiastic LSU fan, Hugh faithfully followed his Tigers in both football and basketball. He loved tennis, traveling, good conversation, and sharing an Old Fashioned at Don’s with friends.

Traveling was a highlight to Doc and he traveled with his very special friend, and, in Hugh’s own words, his “bodyguard,” Michelle DeRouen. Michelle promised Barbara that she would always take care of Hugh, and she honored that promise. Through years of friendship, travel, laughter, companionship, and unwavering devotion, she helped fill Hugh’s years with purpose, dignity, and love.

Hugh’s Christian faith was the solid foundation beneath his legacy. Morning Mass was a pinnacle of his day, and his faith remained a source of comfort, purpose, and strength throughout his life.

Hugh was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Barbara Arceneaux Larriviere; his parents, Ben and Louisa Larriviere; and several brothers and sisters.

He leaves behind his son, James Larriviere and wife Nichole, and their children, Nicolas and Julia; his daughter, Rachel MacGregor, and her children, Lauren and Ashley; four great-grandchildren; and one sister. Also left to cherish his memory are the “Cortese kids” who treated him like a dad.

Hugh will be remembered not only for the doctor he was, but for the man he was: compassionate, funny, faithful, independent, and full of life. He touched the lives of so many friends, former patients, colleagues, and tennis buddies who were fortunate to share a part of his journey.

Services will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Lafayette on September 21, 2026 with visitation starting at 2:00 pm and mass set for the Hour of Great Mercy, 3:00 pm with burial at St. John Cemetery to follow. Father Cedric Sonnier will be the celebrant of the Mass, and scriptures will be read by Laura Cortese and Margaret Rucks.

Pallbearers are James Larriviere, Nicholas Larriviere, Lynn DeRouen, Gary Hebert, Clay Darnall, Phil Cortese, Paul Cortese, and Ron Cortese. Honorary pallbearers are Dr. Charles Olivier, Ronnie Cortese, Tras Lasseigne, Dr Jerome Alesi, Charlie Larriviere, and Hugh’s tennis buddies.

Appreciation for wonderful care is extended to Dr Michael Alexander, Dr Robert Romero, Dr Eric Thomasee, Dr Michael Cain, Dr Jay Culotta, Dr Ziad Ashkar, and Dr Juan Zeik.

Memorial donations may be made to Carmelite of Mary Monastery, 1250 Carmel Dr., Lafayette, LA 70501; St. Mary Mother of the Church by clicking here; or Hospice of Acadiana by clicking here.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family by scrolling to the guest book below.