26 Sep CFSL Honors the Legacy of Four Beloved Students on the 15th Anniversary of Their Passing
Fifteen years ago, the Vandebilt Catholic High School family was forever changed by the tragic loss of four beloved students: Megan Hitt, T.J. Cantrelle, Gabrielle Hebert, and Ian Haydel. Though their time on earth was brief, their light continues to shine in the lives they touched, the memories they left behind, and the legacy of love that carries forward today.
Megan Hitt
Megan ’10 was a young woman of faith whose love for ministry and school spirit radiated throughout Vandebilt Catholic. Deeply involved in Campus Ministry and the Yearbook program, Megan gave of her time and talent to help others grow in faith and community. Her joy in serving others still inspires those who walk the halls of Vandebilt today.
T. J. Cantrelle
T.J. ’10 lived his faith through athletics and leadership. A talented athlete, he excelled on the field and court, but what set him apart was the way he encouraged others and led by example. His sportsmanship, humility, and team spirit left a mark on all who knew him. His friends remember him not only as a player but as a true leader who inspired others to rise higher.
Gabrielle Hebert
Gabrielle ’10 was full of life and joy, a young woman whose zeal for school spirit was contagious. She proudly cheered on her school as part of the cheerleading team, but her involvement reached beyond the sidelines. Gabrielle loved being part of student life and poured her energy into making those around her feel welcome, encouraged, and loved.
Ian Haydel
Ian was a sophomore whose charisma and zest for life made him unforgettable. A gifted athlete, he wore #16 on the football field and also excelled in basketball and baseball. Outside of school, Ian found joy in hunting, fishing, golf, and wakeboarding, but most of all, in the laughter he shared with family and friends. His smile and humor could brighten any room, leaving behind cherished memories that still bring comfort today.
A Legacy That Lives On
Though these four young lives ended far too soon, their spirit continues to inspire. In the years following their passing, their families and friends chose to honor their memory through endowments established with the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana. These perpetual gifts bless Vandebilt Catholic each year by supporting Campus Ministry, the yearbook, scholarships, and tuition assistance—ensuring that the love Megan, T.J., Gabrielle, and Ian carried for their school will continue to touch students for generations to come.
“Even in great loss, God’s grace allows new life to bloom,” said Amy Ponson, CEO. “The memory of Megan, T.J., Gabrielle, and Ian reminds us that faith, joy, and generosity are never forgotten. Their light continues to shine in our community.” As we mark the 15th anniversary of their passing, the Catholic Foundation, along with the Vandebilt Catholic family pauses in prayerful remembrance. May their lives, though short, be forever remembered as gifts of faith, joy, and love.
To learn more about these memorial endowments, or to support the ongoing legacy of these students, click here, http://bit.ly/3W8y4MJ, or contact the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana. Our team would be honored to help you carry forward this mission of faith—or begin an endowment in memory of someone you love.
Contact the CFSL team at (985) 850-3116 or visit us at www.catholicfoundationsl.org