JoAnne Thomas LeBlanc's Obituary
JoAnne Thomas LeBlanc, 80, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2024 in Lakeland, TN. A Louisiana native and longtime resident of Memphis, TN. JoAnne Pearl Thomas LeBlanc was born in New Iberia, Louisiana on February 18, 1944, to the late Claire Thomas and Nelian Pearl DeBiasi Thomas.
JoAnne was a 1962 graduate of Mt. Carmel Academy for girls. Mrs. LeBlanc was a proud homemaker and mother who was employed by Crye-Leike Realtors later in life. A devout and lifelong Catholic, she was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church for over 30 years. Those who knew her agree she had the most gentle, tender heart, the patience of a saint, and believe she is now at blissful peace with Jesus. JoAnne recited the rosary and Devine Mercy chaplet daily with her husband and had a special devotion to the Miraculous Medal. She learned sewing at an early age and loved making clothes for herself, her daughters and granddaughters. JoAnne also enjoyed reading, water aerobics, watching Wheel of Fortune, and spoiling her beloved dog, Bella.
Affectionately called “Nonna” by her children and grandchildren, she had a passion for cooking and researching recipes which resulted in a large cookbook collection for which her husband lovingly built special bookcases. She was a fabulous and creative cook whose dishes were always delicious. But she was best known for her homemade authentic Italian spaghetti and meatballs and many Cajun dishes.
Proud of her Italian heritage, her favorite trips were to Italy. On a Mediterranean cruise for her 50th wedding anniversary, she had the opportunity to explore her homeland. Prior to that, a pilgrimage to Italy was also made with family and friends from SFA. A member of the Friday night “Bouree’ card club”, JoAnne loved getting together with her close friends to visit and play cards. She looked forward to “cards” every week.
JoAnne was a faithful and devoted wife of 58 years to the love of her life, Bryan LeBlanc. What she was most proud of were her granddaughters, whom she adored. She enjoyed afternoons watching Broadway musicals with her granddaughters and friends, which turned into evenings of good food, great conversations, and fond memories. JoAnne was loved beyond measure and will be deeply and forever missed by her family. Mrs. LeBlanc is survived by her loving husband Bryan; two daughters, Donna Malone (Kerry) and Christina LeBlanc; and two granddaughters, McKenzie Malone and Hannah Malone. She was preceded in death by her parents, Claire and Nelian DeBiasi Thomas, and her brother, Elmer "Butch" Thomas.
A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Visitation will take place at 10:00 a.m. on August 21, 2024, also at St. Francis, prior to mass. Fr. Stephen Kenny will be the Celebrant. Interment will follow on Monday, August 26, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Cemetery in New Iberia, Louisiana.
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