Loretta LeMaire LeJeune

Jeanerette - Loretta LeMaire LeJeune, a devoted mother, and a pillar of strength in her family, passed away on October 19, 2023, in New Iberia, surrounded by her family. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 pm, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, in Jeanerette. Interment will be at a later date.

Rev. Francis Daimoah will be the Celebrant.

Visitation will be Tuesday, from 8:00 am until 12:15 pm at Pellerin Funeral Home. A rosary, led by the Men’s Rosary Group, will be prayed at 10:00 am.

Loretta was born on November 20, 1937, to the late Fabian LeMaire, Sr., and Stella LeBlanc LeMaire. She led a remarkable life filled with love, compassion, and dedication to her loved ones.

Loretta began her career as a bookkeeper/accountant for the family business, LeJeune's Bakery, in Jeanerette. Her commitment and attention to detail were instrumental in the success of the business.

Beyond her professional achievements, Loretta had a wide range of hobbies and interests that brought joy into her life. She was an avid bridge and tennis player and even enjoyed great success when she teamed up with her daughter, Lisa, to win the Mother and Daughter Tennis Team State Championship. Additionally, Loretta found solace in playing the piano and derived immense pleasure from it.

Loretta's faith played an integral role in her life. She was an active member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Jeanerette. For many years, she enthusiastically taught religion classes and actively participated in the church choir. Loretta was also a devoted member of the Come Lord Jesus Prayer Group—a testament to her unwavering devotion to her faith.

She had a deep sense of community spirit and generously gave back whenever she could. Loretta served on both the Jeanerette Garden Club and the Jeanerette Historic Committee. Her contributions to these organizations helped preserve local heritage and enhance the beauty of her beloved hometown.

Loretta LeMaire LeJeune's legacy of love, strength, and devotion will be forever cherished by her family and friends. Her kind and nurturing spirit touched the lives of countless individuals throughout her life, leaving an indelible impact on those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Survivors include her children, Walter “Beau” R. LeJeune, III (Emiko), Guy LeJeune, Matthew LeJeune, Lisa LeJeune Freyou (James), and Rene LeJeune; sister, Janet LeMaire Robichaux; brother, Fabian “Bib” LeMaire, Jr. (Pat); grandchildren, Marybeth LeJeune Cook (Michael), Kaleb Freyou (Kristyn), Jamie Freyou, Jacob LeJeune, Allison LeJeune, Rachel LeJeune, and Benjamin LeJeune; great grandchildren, Jackson Cook and Wren Freyou; and her beloved dog/sweet girl, “Bailey”

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Guy Hartman LeJeune, Sr.

The family would like to give special thanks to her caregivers, Marion, Wanda, Claudette, Moody, Carla, and Betty for their extraordinary care and compassion.

May Loretta’s memory continue to inspire us all.

Pellerin Funeral Home, 502 Jefferson Terrace, New Iberia, LA 70560 (337.365.3331)