Cecil McCrory is being posthumously honored as the 2006 Cattle Festival Hall of Fame Award inductee.  McCrory was a County Agent of Vermilion Parish from 1977 to 1993, when he died on January 9, of that year in a hunting accident.

            His contributions to the cattle industry were notable.  As extension Country Agent with the LSU Ag Center, he was responsible for educational programs with rice farmers and beef producers.

            He established the Vermilion Parish Cattleman’s Association’s educational tour of ranches, which was well attended by many cattlemen for the eleven years he worked with it.  Under his leadership the Vermilion Cattlemen’s Association maintained the highest membership in the state every year that he served as secretary.

            McCrory was named Outstanding Parish Secretary in 1986, and was named to the prestigious Spur Club for state leadership in the Louisiana Cattleman’s Association in 1992.  In 1981, he won the Cattle Festival President’s Award for unselfish efforts toward promoting the festival.  He also won many honors in his profession, that of County Agent.  He was dedicated to serving young people though 4-H and touched the loved of many.

            “What really made Cecil different from others who won many awards was his personal friendship and love for life and people,” said Howard Cormier.  “He was someone who was effective someone who was effective in dealing with people and their problems.  He touched many by his sense of humor, his work ethic, his common sense, and his direct approach to addressing issues.”

            One of his saying was “Don’t find fault; find a remedy.”

            He lived a life of joy, helpfulness, laughter, hard work and meaningful relationships, Cormier added.

            “Although deeply religious, he preached only by his example,” Cormier added.  “He understood the value of people, and whether they were socially important or economically insignificant, he treated everyone alike.  He made you feel good just by being around him.  You could talk to him about anything, and he sympathized.  He was a good listener, and helped you see things in perspective.”

            Cormier said McCrory was “one of us” and helped others through daily struggles with understanding and a sense of humor.

            “He taught many lessons about life by living well, and being positive.  He is still missed today, but will always live in the hearts of the people who knew him,” Cormier continued.

            He is survived by his wife the former Ruby McCrory (Mrs. Brady Broussard) of Abbeville, three married children, Nickie, David and Lindsay; three grandchildren; two sisters, Joan McCrory of Baton Rouge; Gail LaGage of Iota, and one brother, Mahlon McCrory, also of Iota.