Leroy "Spat" James East

Leroy James "Spat" East, 75, of Hackberry, Louisiana, passed away on October 30, 2025, in Zachary, Louisiana. He was born on February 22, 1950, in Hackberry to Raymond and Alice Swire East.

Spat grew up surrounded by family and lifelong friends in Hackberry, where he attended Hackberry High School. Known for his strong work ethic and steady nature, he began his career with the Cameron Parish Police Jury as an Equipment Operator right out of High School. Through dedication and leadership, he rose to become Road Crew Foreman, a role he served faithfully for 33 years before retiring. Retirement didn't last long; after just one day, Spat returned to work with Brown's Food Center as a delivery driver for their boat orders, where he enjoyed twelve more years of service before retiring for good.

Spat's love story with his wife, Pam, began on the sands of Holly Beach. Without a car, he couldn't take her out right away, but when he finally got a car, he drove to her house, courageously asked her father's permission to take her for a Coke, and was told to have her home by ten. When he walked her to the door and held her hand, she knew he was the one. They were engaged on her birthday, November 5, and married on December 19, 1970. Together, they shared fifty-five beautiful years filled with laughter, hard work, and devotion.

Spat enjoyed gardening, woodworking, cooking, and traveling across the United States with Pam, making special memories in Vermont, South Dakota, Maine, and Branson. One of their favorite getaways was Conway, New Hampshire, where they always returned to the same little corner table at the White Mountain Lodge. Spat was a familiar and friendly face at the Hackberry Senior Center, where he received the "Kindness Award." He was proudly named Hackberry High School Boys Basketball's "No. 1 Fan." He was also an enthusiastic supporter of the Ice Pirates Hockey Team.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 55 years, Pamela Ann Chiasson East; his sister, Russie Stelly and husband Kenneth; his in-laws Larry Bacque, Carson Fasske, Denise Fasske, and Tammy Domingue; along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Alma Theriot and Margaret Bacque; and his brothers, Wilson "Red" East and Joseph East.

Funeral services for Spat will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, in the Johnson Funeral Home of Sulphur Chapel, with Rev. Marcus Wade officiating. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM on Tuesday, resuming on Wednesday from 9:00 AM until the start of the service. Cremation will be entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.

Spat will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humor, and his love for family and community. His life was a reflection of quiet strength, steady faith, and simple joys, a legacy that will continue in the hearts of all who loved him.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of AMG Specialty Hospital in Zachary, Louisiana for their compassionate care.