Tabb, Sonnier honored at St. Mary Parish Fair on Saturday

Howard Tabb and John Sonnier were honored Saturday at the 2019 St. Mary Parish Jr. Fair & Livestock Show at Franklin Senior High School.
Tabb received this year’s Show Dedication and Recognition and Sonnier was recognized as the 2019 Lifetime Member.
The families of each of the awardees were on hand to accept the awards on their behalf.
Sandra Tabb, widow of Howard Tabb, said of him, “Howard had a stroke and became blind 20 years ago.
“What I want to tell you, is that by faith Howard made his way to that rabbit shed mostly in darkness and with very little light for 20 years to care for his livestock; and he still attended shows with his grandchildren.”
She further stated that on Tabb’s “dying day,” he was on his way to the parish rabbit show to show his favorite rabbit, who died that same day.
She closed her address with a message to the youth, “To the young people: The things of this world try to bombard you on every side, and troubles find you. But remember, Howard only had his hands and his mind and no sight. He used what he had at hand to carry out the task that God had put before him.
“So come, show your rabbits, pigs, chickens, goats, sheep and cattle. Don’t give up. Keep the faith, and God will bless all of you as you grow into prosperous young men and women someday.”
Following Tabb’s address, the Sonnier family accepted the 2019 Lifetime Member award on behalf of John Sonnier.
Elmer Ray Durham, Sonnier’s son-in-law, gave a short address, saying of Sonnier, “He was there to support us all the time. He was like the backbone.”
He offered his appreciation “for all the help” supporters had given the family while Sonnier had been ill.
Sonnier passed away Saturday.