Josephine Leona Conner Derouen

Josephine Leona Conner Derouen, 96, passed away peacefully in her home on September 20, 2024. She was born on October 7, 1927, in Creole, Louisiana.

Josephine grew up with a deep love for the outdoors, especially fishing and shrimping. One day while walking down Ryan Street in Lake Charles, she spotted a man across the street, Julius Jay Derouen, and declared, "That's the one." The two were married on April 24, 1944, and shared a life filled with love, adventure, and five children. They remained happily married until Julius' passing in 2013.

A talented and creative woman, Josephine enjoyed making ceramics with her three daughters and eventually began crafting her own rosaries. She loved staying busy and was always up to something. Before Julius’ passing, the couple shared a passion for traveling across the United States. When they weren't traveling, they could often be found out on the water, fishing or shrimping together. Josephine’s love for the outdoors was matched only by her love for her Pomeranian, Foxy.

She is survived by her five children: Phillip Derouen of Lake Charles, Byron Derouen (Vickie) of Lake Charles, Karen Langley of Lake Charles, Sharon Fuselier of Lake Charles, and Lurline Lavergne of Lake Charles. She also leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 20 great-great-grandchildren.

Josephine was preceded in death by her parents, Luke Conner and Myrtle Valet Conner; her three brothers, Columbus, Joseph, and George Conner; her two sisters, Marie Meyers and Hilda Sickafus; her son-in-law, Floyd Lavergne; her grandchild, Jay Allen Derouen; and her great-grandchildren, Gabriel Lanthier and Conner Chaline.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and will be remembered for her warmth, adventurous spirit, and loving heart.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, September 23, at 11:00 a.m. at Johnson Funeral Home, with Father Matthew Cormier officiating. Public visitation will take place on Sunday, September 22, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home, with a recitation of the Rosary at 6:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Consolata Cemetery.