Joyce LeJeune

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Joyce Marie Miller LeJeune, who left this world on April 28, 2025, at Ochsner Acadia in Crowley, LA, at the age of 88. Born on November 23, 1936, to Alexon and Nola Lalonde Miller, Joyce was a spirited woman known for her fierce independence, sharp wit, and boundless love for her family.

Born with a fiery heart and a determined spirit, Joyce never shied away from taking charge. Whether it was running a household, coaching a softball team, or organizing the next family trip, she led with confidence, humor, and an iron will be softened by deep love.

A lifelong lover of crafting, Joyce found joy in the details—sewing, crocheting, and creating handmade treasures that warmed the hearts of everyone lucky enough to receive them. She stitched not only fabric but also the fabric of her family’s lives, binding generations together with every thoughtful project.

Her adventurous soul took her across 48 states, Canada, and Mexico, collecting memories, stories, and souvenirs along the way. She had a deep love for the LSU Tigers and the Saints. Football season in her home was sacred, loud, and full of commentary, often unfiltered and always entertaining.

Athletic and competitive by nature, Joyce was a basketball player for Iota High school and later passed on her love for sports by coaching recreational softball, where she motivated young players with tough love and encouragement. Her greatest pride, though, came from the stands—cheering at every game, and event her grandchildren participated in. She was their biggest fan, loudest cheerleader, and strongest supporter.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. A devout Catholic, she prayed daily for her family, friends, and anyone who needed a little extra strength. Her rosary was always within reach, and her belief in the power of prayer never wavered.

Joyce was fiercely proud of her Cajun heritage and the place she called home. She carried her culture with pride—through the food she cooked, the stories she told, and the spirit she embodied. Her roots run deep, and she never missed a chance to celebrate where she came from. Whether it was a family gathering filled with gumbo and laughter or simply sharing a Cajun phrase with a grandchild, she honored her background with joy and authenticity.

Joyce was never one to hold her tongue. She spoke her mind, cracked jokes, and told it like it was—with a twinkle in her eye and love in her voice. Her presence was commanding, her laughter contagious, and her absence will be deeply felt.

Joyce lived boldly, loved fiercely, and leaves behind a life stitched with love and laughter. May she rest in peace, knowing her voice, her faith, and her passion will echo through generations to come.

Joyce is survived by her beloved son, Shannon LeJeune (Karen), and her cherished grandchildren: Stacy Sharp (Sam), Kristi Rambin (Colby), Casey Bushnell (Eric), Terry Bushnell II (Ashley), Tyler Bushnell (Harley), Abbey LeJeune Jones (Kyle), and Dillon LeJeune. She took immense pride in her great-grandchildren: Briggs, Bryce (Kami), Trae (Rhiannon), Jadyn, Sage, Kameron, Karson, Kanon, Jaxson, Jace, Blaire, Colton, Weslie Camille, and Wyatt McCoy. Joyce’s family was her pride and joy, and the bond they shared will be treasured forever.

She is preceded in death by her loving husband of seventy years, Eldridge LeJeune; her cherished daughter, Renee LeJeune Bushnell; and her parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial and ceremonies to honor Joyce’s remarkable life will take place on Friday, May 1, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Iota. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in the St. Joseph Mausoleum with Father Andrew Killeen officiating. In keeping with Joyce’s wishes, a visitation will be held at Ardoin’s Funeral Home in Iota on Thursday, May 1, 2025, from 2:00pm to 9:00pm and again from 7:00am until the time of the services at 10:00am on Friday. A rosary will be recited at 6:00pm on Thursday evening. We invite family, friends, and community members to join us in celebrating her beautiful life and the cherished memories we share.

Joyce’s spirit will continue to inspire those who loved her, and she will be missed deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Carrying her to her resting place are Terry, Tyler, Dillon, Bryce, Trae, Briggs, Kameron, and Karson.

Family and friends may view this obituary and sign the guestbook at www.ardoinfuneralhomes.com. Ardoin’s Funeral Home of Iota, located at 840 Howard Street, (337) 779-3083, is handling the arrangements.