He was a Holy Man by Elaine Richard Haworth
Submitted by Elaine Richard Haworth
Growing up in our small 100% Catholic community of Arnaudville in the 50's and 60's, the church (St. Francis Regis) was the center of our life. Attending Catholic school (Little Flower of Jesus) and attending daily mass was a major part of our existence. I didn't meet a non-Catholic until I was in high school!
My sisters, Mary Ann, Pearl and I delivered Sacred Heart leaflets for our mother, Mrs. Lawrence Richard, Sr., (Wilma Miller). Mom was one of Nonco's promoters, which meant she helped to distribute his Sacred Heart leaflets. We delivered them to our Richard cousins and Smith neighbors along Highway 31.
I have fond memories of Nonco's plays. Each year, he presented a program with children and adults of the church parish as participants. Nonco amazed me as he was a "one-man show" as far as arranging everything. He prepared the script with readings, songs, logistics... all written out in his handwriting. I remember how we walked on stage following his "tape" path to our designated places. Reading our "parts" was my debut to public speaking! He instilled confidence in many children with his presentations and their participation.
I was in awe of him as he was always moving and "doing" in honor of the Sacred Heart. In my book, he is already a saint, a role model. He was never in a hurry; he sort of shuffled in his too large suit which he always wore and his large shoes. I always thought it odd how a small man of stature had such large feet!!
He walked everywhere he went and declined offers of a ride. I heard stories of how he had a lot of animals. My brother, Jerry, has often said that Nonco was the director of the first Arnaudville zoo!!
Amazing how a small stature of a man has had such an impact on a small community...the Acadian town of Arnaudville. How blessed we were that God sent Nonco to us!! Yes, he was indeed a Holy Man!!!!
August 6, 2012, Elaine wrote: "Nonco was a big influence in my life as a child. He was a spiritual role model to everyone in Arnaudville."


