James Jeansonne

James Louis Jeansonne, "Jim" to family and friends, was our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He passed away, at the age of 75, on August 30, 2025, surrounded by his family.

Born September 10, 1949 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jim lived a life defined by strength, generosity and quiet sensitivity. Well-read and deeply curious, Jim found joy in history, literature and all things of nature. He loved spending time in the woods, whether hunting or simply observing and nurturing all of God's wondrous gifts blossoming at his farm in Norwood, Louisiana. He was a curious amalgamation of the eclectic - a "modern Renaissance man"; he enjoyed scuba diving, travel and an appreciation of a vibrant music spectrum that ranged from Randy Travis to The Rolling Stones, classical music and everything in between. His family will always remember him for his sharp mind, kind heart and calm presence. He knew when to fold another into his embrace, sharing their sorrows or magnifying their joys. He was large in frame and in heart.

Jim graduated from Broadmoor High School, earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Louisiana State University in 1972 and then went on to graduate as a Doctor of Dental Surgery from LSU in 1976. Following his graduation, Jim served active duty as a Captain in the United States Army, stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, from 1976 to 1979, carrying the values of patriotism and service throughout his lifetime.

In 1979, Jim launched his dental practice in Gonzales, Louisiana—a career he carried forward with compassion, skill and passionate dedication until retiring in 2025. His passion for his profession led him often to remark "I loved my work; I have never felt that I 'worked' a day in my life. Every day was a joy." That dedication and drive was echoed in the assurances of a number of colleagues, who have shared that Jim was vital to launching their careers.

Jim was active in his community, serving in the Gonzales Rotary Club, acting as its president in 2022 and 2023. During his time at LSU, Jim pledged Sigma Nu Phi Chapter, as brother Phi 810, and went on to serve as its Home Corporation President. He was also a Fellow Craft Mason working towards his degrees with lodge Feliciana #31 when he passed.

He is survived by Kathy, his loving and faithful wife of 43 years and his children, Stephanie Marie Jeansonne and her husband Billy Tullier, James Robert Jeansonne and his wife Paige, and Katie Jeansonne Maxwell and her husband Jack; his grandchildren, Pilot, Ronin, Freya, Maudie James and Cannon, who affectionately called him "the Dude" (AKA: "the most awesome Dude"); his siblings, Wendy Anne Jeansonne and her husband Dave Dargo and Stephen Prince Jeansonne and his wife Nancy; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other loved ones, including his beloved four-legged furry side-kick "Buddy." He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Louis Jeansonne and Sylvia Anne Hernandez Jeansonne.

While Jim treasured his relationships with many special people, Drexell Boggs, Chris Reily and Dr. Chad Spillers held cherished places in his heart. With each, many years of shared professional and recreational endeavors forged unbreakable bonds of brotherhood.

Jim's drink of choice was bourbon or whiskey over severely crushed ice, which he referred to as a "snow cone." It was integral to toasts of "to the family" when loved ones gathered and it consistently kicked off a rousing game of spades and other shared moments of good company.

In time, the family will hold two memorial celebrations in honor of Jim: one at his home in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and another at his home in Norwood, Louisiana. Dates and times for these celebrations will be announced. In the meantime, we know that each of us now have stewardship over the gifts that Jim has shared; it would put a smile on his face to know that you took a leisurely walk in nature, preferably with a beloved family member or friend and perhaps a furry friend, and that you just inhaled the beauty that is God's most generous gift to each of us - seize it. Hug your loved ones. Tell them what is in your heart. He would be honored to know that you thought of him as you drank in these things.

Jim's family would like to thank his entire care team at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, in honor of his lifelong commitment to service and community.