Leon C. “Sunny” Vial, III, of Hahnville, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Mary Janet Hargrove Vial; father of Leon C. “Lon” Vial IV, Mary Janet “Nanette” Vial, Thomas Edward Vial, and John Lowe Vial. He was the son of the late Leon C. Vial, Jr. and Jessee Lucille Lowe Vial, and the brother of the late Dr. David “Jerry” Vial.
Born in Paradis and a lifelong resident of Hahnville, Sunny graduated from Hahnville High School. He attended Southwestern University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology before serving in the United States Air Force, where he became a jet fighter pilot and flight commander assigned to the 391st Fighter Squadron flying the North American F-86 Sabre. Upon completion of his military service, Sunny attended Tulane University Law School and began a long and honorable legal career that spanned 62 years.
He served collectively for 23 years as parish attorney for the St. Charles Parish Police Jury and later the St. Charles Parish Council during the administrations of Parish Presidents Kevin Friloux, Albert Laque, and V. J. St. Pierre. He fully retired at the age of 93 after a distinguished career that began with the practice of law alongside his uncle, James P. Vial, and Harry T. Lemmon, in the firm Vial, Vial & Lemmon. His career was defined by integrity, honor, and dedication to others. Throughout his life, he quietly demonstrated a deep commitment to helping those in need throughout the community.
He was a member of St. Charles Masonic Lodge No. 445, the Consistory, and Jerusalem Temple, and was a 32nd Degree Mason in the Scottish Rite. He was a member of American Legion Post 131.
Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Service at New Life Community Church, 134 Lakewood Drive, Luling, Louisiana, on Thursday, May 14, 2026. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until noon, with the funeral service beginning at noon. Interment will follow at St. Charles Cemetery.
L.A. Muhleisen & Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Paradis, LA.
To share memories or condolences, please visit www.muhleisen.com
