IOTA~It is with heavy hearts that the family of Janice Marie Hanks Leger announces her passing on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the Calcutta House in Lafayette at the age of 80. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Iota on Monday, July 27, beginning at 11:00am with burial to follow in the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery with Father Kyle White, Celebrant. The family warmly invites all who knew and loved Janice to join them in celebrating the life she lived.

Janice devoted forty-two years to nurturing young minds as a second-grade teacher at Iota Elementary. Her life was enriched by simple joys—cooking, puzzles, and a love for reading. Janice was a selfless and dedicated mother, and had a fierce love for her grandchildren, which was evident in every moment spent together. Janice’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched with her warmth and unwavering dedication.

She leaves behind her loving children, Jacob Leger and wife, Kelly of Carencro, Jacqueline Bertrand of Iota, and Julie Leger-James and husband, Errasmus of Dallas, TX; her brother, Dalton Hanks and wife, Kathy of Florida and Arnold Hanks and wife, Barbara of Lyons Point; her sister, Emmalene Stoute and husband, Meldon of Rayne; her six grandchildren, Abby Kate Leger, Mary-Grace Leger, Molly Claire Leger, Zoey Leger-James, Zaida James, and Zyla Leger; as well as extended family and friends.

Janice is preceded in death by her husband, Donald John Leger; grandson, Lane Michael Leger; her parents; brothers, John Irvin Hanks and Kenneth Leon Hanks; and son-in-law, Christopher Bertrand.

Family and friends may view this obituary and sign the guestbook at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com

Ardoin’s Funeral Home of Iota, 840 Howard St. (337)779.3083 is in charge of arrangements.