Jolene Gaspard Wheelock

Forked Island - Jolene Gaspard Wheelock, age 49, passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2026 in Lafayette. It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a friend, colleague, and Public Safety Telecommunicator, Jolene Gaspard Wheelock. Jolene was born on July 15, 1976 in Kaplan. She was a long-time resident of Forked Island, and she was a member of the American Legion. Jolene faithfully served the citizens of Vermilion Parish with compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication. As a 911 Public Safety Telecommunicator, she was often the calm voice on the other end of the line during someone's most difficult moment. Her commitment to serving our community and supporting our first responders exemplified the highest standards of public safety. While much of a dispatcher's work takes place behind the scenes, the impact of that work is immeasurable. Jolene answered the call when the community needed help most, providing reassurance to callers and critical support to law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical services. Her service touched countless lives, many of whom will never know her name but benefited from her dedication. To those who had the privilege of working alongside her, Jolene was far more than a coworker. She was a cherished member of the 911 family whose kindness, friendship, and commitment to others left a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her presence will be deeply missed within our communications center. We are grateful for Jolene's dedicated service to Vermilion Parish and the legacy she leaves behind. Her compassion, professionalism, and commitment to helping others will not be forgotten. She is survived by her children, Collin Carroll Wheelock II and Lawson Kent Whalen; her parents, Wilman Clyde and Eve Adel Gaspard; her siblings, Donna Romero (David), Hannah Vincent, and Sarah Abshire (Chris); her beloved nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews; as well as her numerous friends. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Deussard Gaspard and Aline Gaspard; her maternal grandparents, Gladue Gaspard and Amy Gaspard; and her brother-in-law, Scott Vincent. Jolene’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the 911 Office, Kaplan Police Department, American Legion, as well as her numerous friends for their kind words and support. Services will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Cypress Funeral Home & Crematory, 206 W. Lafayette St., Maurice, LA 70555.

Jolene Gaspard Wheelock

July 15, 1976 - June 25, 2026