James "Jimmy " Lemoine, Big Bend native
James "Jimmy " Lemoine, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and a well respected member of the community, passed away on December 27, 2023 at Ashton Manor in Luling, LA. He was surrounded by his loving family and friends during his final moments.
Born on May 3, 1934 in Longbridge, LA, James was the son of Elliott and Hattie (Simon) Lemoine. He grew up alongside his 6 siblings in Big Bend, LA. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Byron "Boy" Lemoine, 2 of his sisters Earline "Sister" Bueche and Bernice "Biddy" Briley and great granddaughter, Sarah Lemoine.
James had an illustrious career spanning 38 years beginning at NOPSI/Entergy as a lineman and later on became their photographer. After retiring, he ventured into the culinary world, opened his own barbecue restaurant and worked with Chef John Folse at Nicholls University. He had a love for everything German. He was also a professional photographer, president of the N.O. chapter German Wine Society, president of the Deutsches Haus, member of the N.O. Antique Car Club, and enjoyed his work at the German American Cultural Museum. A proud veteran of the US Army, James served our country dutifully and with honor.
James is survived by his devoted wife of 65 years, Edelgart "Edda" Bossert Lemoine; their children: Michael "Mike" Lemoine (Marcie) of River Ridge, Frieda Lemoine Wilkerson (David) of Mandeville, and David Lemoine of River Ridge. He is also survived by his sister, Daisy "Patoot" Bernard of Big Bend, brothers, Elliott James "E.J." "Brother" Lemoine (Judy) of Prairieville, LA, and Michael Lemoine (Pamela) of Jackson, LA. James' memory will forever live on through his cherished grandchildren: Nicolle Lemoine Bowman (Perry), Adrienne Wilkerson, Michael Lemoine II (Renee), Jessica Lemoine, and Matthew Wilkerson (Anne Marie). His great grandchildren Tristan Wilkerson, Sage Bowman, Jackson Bowman, Indiana Kesling, Anna Lemoine, Paul Lemoine, Arlo Kesling, and Marley Sayler will carry a piece of their beloved great grandfather with them.
Those who knew James will forever remember him as someone who could illuminate any room with his warm smile and light hearted spirit. He possessed a remarkable ability to make others feel cherished and loved. While we mourn the loss of such an extraordinary individual, let us also celebrate the beautiful life he lived and honor the lasting legacy he has left behind. May we all live our lives like our beloved Jimmy (Opa).
A visitation in honor of James' life will be held at St. Peter Catholic Church Hall in Bordelonville, LA on January 6, 2024. The visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and conclude at 12:45 p.m. Immediately following the visitation, a graveside service will take place at St. Michael Catholic Church Cemetery in Rexmere, LA . The graveside service is scheduled to commence at 1:00 p.m. A memorial/celebration of life will be held in River Ridge, LA in a few weeks. Additional information, time and date to be determined.
A special thank you to Ashton Manor and their staff for their excellent care. An extra special thank you to Melvin, Alicia, and Jackie of Hospice Specialists of LA who provided exemplary care. We are forever grateful for them.