SWLA received the shocking news over the 4th of July holiday, that a young local talent had passed away. A Cary Chavis was a former teacher, community activist, radio DJ, youth mentor, and host of The Cary Chavis Experience podcast. He was only 36 years old.

The Lake Charles Police Department responded to a 911 call from a local motel, at 1:14 p.m. Saturday, July 2nd. LCPD Deputy Chief Franklin Fondel reported that Chavis was found dead and an investigation into what happened is ongoing. The Calcasieu Coroners Office was to perform an examination and toxicology test. So far, the results nor the cause of death have been released to the public.

Many in the community were heartbroken by the news and arranged a candlelight vigil in his honor the same night at the Civic Center Seawall. Family and friends took to social media the express their grief and paid tribute to Chavis. We extend to his family prayers and our heartfelt condolences as they deal with his loss. He will be deeply missed.

On July 4, 2022, his family released the following statement via KPLC:

Cary Allen Chavis, a brand Architect. His motto is “I tear it down and rebuild it.”

Born on July 18, 1985 to Donald and Marjorie Robinson Chavis. He is the youngest of two siblings.

Cary assumed a leadership role as a young child. He always believed in God knowing that through God, All things are possible.” He never accepted “no to any situation.” He always prayed and found a better solution to any problem. He, following his parent’s educational and community advocacy for a better tomorrow, especially for North Lake Charles.

He worked diligently with the youth. He made them see something greater in each of them. He was a Great Debater of Wiley College and brought that knowledge with him to produce a winning statewide debate team at Washington Marion High School. He organized the Great Debaters of the IMPACT AGENCY. He also used his skills during the summer at the Upward Bound Program.

Cary believed; Cary worked; and Cary gave of himself 24-7 because of his love for humanity. Yes, he had formal education from Washington Marion, Wiley College, and McNeese State University.

Cary had great mentors such as Judge Ron Ware, Judge Gene Thibodeaux, Former D. A. John Derosier, and so many others. Because of their impact on him, he reached out to save many. His legacy lives on with his family, friends, former students, and mentees.He said and lived the life, that if you tear it down, with God I’ll build it back up!

There will be a celebration of life ceremony for Cary Charvis Saturday, July 9, 2022. Services will take place at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 3007 Enterprise Blvd. A viewing will be at 9 a.m., followed by the homegoing services at 11 a.m. The Chavis family requests that guests wear facemasks, no t-shirts, please.

Funeral preparations are being done by the James Funeral Home, located at 1801 Moeling Street in Lake Charles. To send flowers, a sympathy card, read Cary's obituary or leave a message of condolence to his family click, here.

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