Leave a Legacy Plan for Miracles

Barbara and Ulyesse LeGrange shared a love story that spanned more than seven decades. They met in Baton Rouge, married, and spent the rest of their lives building a remarkable partnership. In their early years, Barbara worked as a posting machine operator to support Ulyesse through college — a commitment that reflected the deep devotion that defined their marriage.

“If I walked in the room, my husband’s eyes lit up,” Barbara shared before her death earlier this year. “And if he walked in, mine did, too.”

Ulyesse, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 92, built a distinguished 40-year career at ExxonMobil. He rose from a clerical role at the Baton Rouge refinery to senior leadership positions, including President of Exxon Pipeline Co. and CFO of Exxon’s U.S. Oil and Gas Operations. He also served in national leadership roles within the financial community, advised top universities, and was inducted into the Louisiana State University Business School Hall of Distinction and the Financial Executives International Hall of Fame.

Married for 74 years, he and Barbara raised three children and delighted in their six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Barbara chose to include Texas Children’s in her will to honor her beloved husband while providing vital support to a program she believed in wholeheartedly: the Texas Children’s Mental and Behavioral Health Initiative. Her vision was to help ensure that every child has equal access to compassionate, high-quality care. When fully realized, her planned gift commitment will provide critical endowed and immediate support for the Initiative.

Barbara’s gift illuminates the power of planned giving. Estate gifts allow donors to make a transformational impact while also caring for family and honoring other priorities. For Barbara, it was a way to honor Ulyesse, support a cause close to her heart, and ensure their legacy continues for generations.