ST. MARTIN PARISH — A vigil was held at Evangeline Oak Park on Saturday evening to honor the life of Shentell Brown, a former Assistant District Attorney and beloved member of the community, who tragically passed away on February 9th. The event brought together friends, family, and residents of St. Martin Parish to celebrate Brown’s lasting impact and contributions.
Brown, who served in the 16th Judicial District Court, dedicated much of her career to the Juvenile Non-Support Division, where she worked to prevent children from falling into lives of crime. In addition to her work in the courtroom, she collaborated closely with the Coordinated Community Response Team at Chez Hope, a local family violence crisis center, where she became known for her dedication and commitment to helping those in need.
Kelli Cantu, a PR and Training Advocate with Chez Hope, spoke at the vigil, reflecting on Brown’s character. “She was ready to take action, always meeting people where they were to help them in whatever situation they were facing,” Cantu said. “She was one of the first to jump on board and try to help in whatever way she could.”
Despite the circumstances surrounding her death, which police believe to be the result of a murder-suicide, the vigil was not a time of mourning but a celebration of Brown’s life. Maggie Simar, a close friend of Brown and Family Court Hearing Officer with the 16th Judicial Court, shared personal memories of their friendship, describing Brown as vivacious and always full of joy. “This was really a celebration, and she deserves that,” Simar said. “She was a very happy person, and she would have wanted this to be a celebration.”
Simar also spoke of the strength of their bond, adding, “She loved her family, and that’s what I will forever remember about her. It was very special to have a teammate like that.”
The vigil, hosted by Chez Hope, was attended not only by close friends and family but also by members of the community who were touched by Brown’s legacy. José Alexander, another friend of Brown, commented on the overwhelming support shown by the attendees. “To come out and see this kind of support shows what kind of person Shentell was,” Alexander remarked.
The vigil was organized with a purple theme, a tribute to Brown’s favorite color, as shared by her family. The event served as a testament to her spirit, and even those who did not know her personally, like Carlotta Eaglen, attended to show their support. “I’m showing my love right now, just by showing my face,” Eaglen said. “Even though I didn’t know her, I know her in the spirit.”
As the evening progressed, attendees reflected on the profound impact Brown had on the community. José Alexander summed up the sentiment, expressing how difficult it was to put into words just how much she meant to those who knew her. “There’s just so many things I could say about her, there’s just not enough time,” he said.
The vigil not only provided an opportunity to remember Brown but also reaffirmed the community’s commitment to carrying forward her legacy. Those who gathered expressed a collective desire to ensure that her memory, character, and contributions continue to inspire future generations.
In a community deeply affected by her loss, the vigil served as both a moment of remembrance and a promise to keep Shentell Brown’s spirit alive for years to come.