Lloyd “Red” Lerille

2013 Lafayette Civic Cup Honoree

For more than half a century, Red Lerille has been one of Lafayette’s most recognizable faces and one of its most humble champions. In 2013, the longtime health club owner, businessman, and community benefactor was named the 81st recipient of the Lafayette Civic Cup, honoring not only his success in business but also his quiet generosity and lifelong commitment to keeping Acadiana healthy.

Lerille’s journey to Lafayette prominence began with his love of fitness. In 1960, he won the coveted Mr. America title, an achievement that fueled his passion for health and wellness. Just three years later, in 1963, he opened his first gym on Johnston Street. What started as a small one-room gym has since grown into Red Lerille’s Health & Racquet Club, a sprawling, multimillion-dollar facility on Doucet Road that offers everything from weight training and cycling classes to tennis courts, swimming pools, racquetball, saunas, steam rooms, and a running track.

But Lerille’s story is about much more than fitness. Thousands of University of Louisiana at Lafayette students found their first jobs at Red’s, learning not only about health but also about discipline, responsibility, and hard work. As Civic Cup committee member Madelyn Hilliard noted, “The community is blessed to have someone like him. He has been such a positive example for the youth.”

Behind the success of his club lies a spirit of philanthropy that has touched nearly every corner of Acadiana. Lerille has quietly supported countless athletic events, schools, and local charities, rarely seeking or accepting recognition. “My dad doesn’t like to let people know he gives back,” his son, Mark Lerille, once said. “Some things I don’t even know about—what he sponsors, how much he gives.”

Lerille has been a steady supporter of Faith House, Lafayette’s domestic violence shelter, and has given generously to churches, schools, and community causes. One story often told is of a nun who approached him at Mass with a fundraising appeal; without hesitation, Lerille emptied his pockets on the spot.

His employees also reflect his deep sense of loyalty and community. While the average health club sees high turnover, many of Lerille’s staff members have remained for decades—some for more than 30 years—creating a culture of family that mirrors his own values.

Though widely admired, Lerille’s humility made him hesitant to accept the Civic Cup honor. “At first I didn’t know if I wanted such an honor,” he admitted at the banquet. “But I’ll take it.” Asked what the award meant, he quipped, “Maybe in a couple of years I can tell you what it means.”

Still, his pride was evident when speaking of the thousands of students he had mentored and employed over the years. “I’d like to know how many thousands we’ve hired,” he reflected. “That’s what I feel good about.”

Since 1933, the Lafayette Civic Cup has honored individuals who exemplify service, generosity, and leadership. Red Lerille stands firmly in that tradition. A Mr. America turned community builder, his true legacy is not found in trophies or facilities but in the lives he has touched—students, athletes, neighbors, and countless individuals who live healthier, fuller lives because of his example.