Wilson Lloyd “Pete” Benoit is being inducted into the Louisiana Cattle Festival Hall of Fame.

Pete was born in Milton, but lived most of his life in Erath. His recognition in the Hall of Fame comes posthumously, as Benoit died April 30, 2009.

Pete was the baby boy of 13 children, and coming from a poor family, he started working at a young age. This experience taught him to always lend a helping hand to those in need, no matter what the need may have been. The willingness to help others enabled Pete to always have a smile on his face.

His work life was as a driver for Duhon Brothers, but he was always ready to help anywhere Duhon needed him. In addition, Pete was a member of the Erath Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years, as well as a member of the La. Cattle Festival Association for 12 years. At the time of his death, he was an ex-Officio board member after serving as a board member for 11 years prior to this year.

His marriage to Tonia Fung Benoit brought two families together. Pete’s son Brock J. Benoit is married to Angie Eady Benoit, and they have two children: Andre’ and Cohen. His son Cory A. Benoit has two children with his girlfriend Tonya Stelly: Kelsey and Taylor. Tonia’s son, Scotty and his fiancee Melanie Toups are expecting their first child, whose name will be Brason.

Pete brought smiles to everyone around him and he will be sadly missed. For many of those involved with the Cattle Festival, Pete was a consistent glow with his smiles. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and a dear friend.

His life has taught many that our stay on Earth is never long enough, and that we should keep our friends and family close, to never leave on a bad note and to always say I love you.

Pete will be remembered by those who had the great privilege of knowing him. There is no question that the memorable impression he left will stay in the hearts of those who love him forever.