Lafayette's King Gabriel Celebrates 53 Years in the City

John Wesley Bordelon, originally from Metairie, has been a fixture in the Lafayette community for over five decades.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

John Wesley Bordelon, known as King Gabriel LXXXVII, has been a prominent figure in the Lafayette, Louisiana community for over 53 years. Originally from Metairie, Bordelon has made Lafayette his home and has been deeply involved in the banking and University of Louisiana at Lafayette communities.

Why it matters

Bordelon's long tenure in Lafayette highlights the enduring connection between individuals and the communities they choose to call home. As a King Gabriel, Bordelon has also played an important ceremonial role in Lafayette's cultural traditions, contributing to the city's unique identity.

The details

John Wesley Bordelon, originally from Metairie, Louisiana, has been a fixture in the Lafayette community for over 53 years. Bordelon is known as King Gabriel LXXXVII, a prestigious ceremonial title he has held for many years, and has been deeply involved in the local banking industry as well as the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

  • Bordelon has lived in Lafayette for over 53 years.

The players

John Wesley Bordelon

A prominent figure in the Lafayette, Louisiana community who has been known as King Gabriel LXXXVII for many years and has been deeply involved in the local banking and university communities.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Bordelon's long tenure in Lafayette demonstrates the powerful bonds that can form between individuals and the communities they choose to be a part of, even if they are not originally from that place. His role as King Gabriel has also allowed him to contribute to Lafayette's unique cultural identity over the decades.