JoAnn Downs

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of JoAnn Downs, who left this world on August 15, 2026, at the age of 78. JoAnn was born on November 12, 1947, in Jennings.JoAnn was a woman of faith and service, deeply involved in her church, Our Lady of LaSalette. She devoted her time as a C.Y.O. spiritual sponsor, a lector and mentor, and a lay minister. A true prayer warrior, she lifted others through her daily Rosary and was a passionate participant in adoration, Cursillo, and Ultreya. Her love for Mary guided her approach to life, inspiring those around her with her kindness and compassion.Professionally, JoAnn worked at Misse's Grocery for 22 years, where she concluded her career as a manager. She was known not just for her leadership but for the warmth and care she showed to customers and colleagues alike. She held an Associate's Degree in Accounting from Sowela College. JoAnn had a unique way of connecting with nature, as an avid picker of blackberries and figs, where she took great pride in canning her produce to share with family and friends. Speaking of family, JoAnn cherished her loved ones deeply. She is survived by her daughter, Tina Chaisson (Danny); sons, Kevin Downs (Shelley) and Bill Downs (Shelley); seven grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren.The joy and love JoAnn shared will live on in those she leaves behind. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Albert Joseph (Joe) Downs; parents, Arnold J. Lognion and Amy Trahan; daughter-in-law, Angela Downs; and siblings, Patricia Thibodeaux and Roger Trahan.Family and friends are invited to celebrate JoAnn's life. A public viewing will take place at Johnson Funeral Home of Sulphur on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM. A rosary will be on the same day starting at 6:00 PM. A Mass in her honor will be celebrated at Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM. JoAnn will be laid to rest following the Mass at Mimosa Pines South under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home of Sulphur.In these moments of grief, let us come together to remember JoAnn's unwavering spirit, her kindness, and her love for all.The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Heart of Hospice for their care and compassion in this difficult time.