Van Roy named Building a Better Avoyelles’ first Avoyellean of the Year

Van Roy, a well-known businessman, real estate agent, civic leader and supporter of the arts, has been named the official 2026 Avoyellean of the Year by Building a Better Avoyelles and Avoyelles Publishing.

The announcement was made by Aliya Deshotel of Avoyelles Publishing during a special presentation recognizing Roy’s years of service, generosity and dedication to Avoyelles Parish.

“Each year, we seek to honor someone who represents the heart of the parish: a person who gives without needing recognition, shows up for others and helps make the community better simply by being part of it. This year, many nominations were submitted, but Roy’s nomination stood out,” Deshotel said.

Roy was nominated by Stacy Paulk, who works with him at Roch Michael Real Estate.

“Van is one of the most selfless and giving individuals I have ever met, and his dedication to our community is unparalleled,” Paulk said.

Roy is the owner of Bailey’s on the Square and also works as a real estate agent with Roch Michael Real Estate. Through both roles, he has become a familiar and trusted presence to many across Avoyelles Parish.

For years, Bailey’s on the Square has served as a gathering place for some of life’s most meaningful moments, including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and community celebrations. Paulk noted that no matter the occasion, Roy works to make sure every detail is handled with care.

Beyond his business, Roy has been involved in numerous local organizations and events, including the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club and Arts Council of Avoyelles. He has opened his doors for homecoming and Mardi Gras events, served as a voice for July 4th celebrations, helped with Christmas courthouse lighting efforts, sponsored hometown festivals, supported art shows and open mic nights, and helped provide dictionaries to local children.

His career in the music industry has also spanned more than 30 years, reaching across the United States and internationally. That experience has helped strengthen the Arts Council of Avoyelles’ annual Arts and Music Festival and attract artists who may not have otherwise known about Avoyelles Parish.

“My heartfelt thanks to Building a Better Avoyelles for an honor I will cherish always,” Roy said. “It has brought me great joy to serve the people of Avoyelles, and I appreciate the support the community has shown me over the years.”

During the presentation, Roy was recognized not only for what he has done, but for the spirit in which he does it. Those who know him describe him as kind, compassionate, hardworking and willing to help whenever there is a need.

The announcement was made during a Rotary Club meeting while Roy was serving as president, making the moment especially fitting. His service reflects the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self.”

Roy was presented with a certificate as the first official recognition of the honor. His official award was presented later. Roy’s family members were also present at the meeting.

“Thank you for your kindness, your leadership and your dedication to Avoyelles Parish,” Deshotel said during the announcement. “You represent the very best of what it means to serve your community.”