Louisa "Peggy" Rene` James

It is with profound sadness and heartfelt reverence that we announce the passing of Louisa "Peggy" Rene` James, a cherished member of our community whose life was a testament to dedication, faith, and grace. Louisa was born in Ville Platte, Louisiana, on June 15, 1948, to John and Lydia Ardoin Rene'. Her earthly journey came to a peaceful close after a brief illness, on March 25, 2026, at the age of 77, surrounded by her loving family, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Throughout her life, Louisa demonstrated unwavering commitment both in her professional and personal realms. Having served diligently as a Telephone Operator at AT&T, she exemplified patience, kindness, and a readiness to assist others—qualities that endeared her to colleagues and friends alike. Yet, it was within the sanctuary of her beloved church where her spirit truly flourished.

Louisa’s devotion to New Sunlight Baptist Church was nothing short of inspiring. She not only loved her church but immersed herself fully in its life and mission. Her active participation extended beyond the walls of New Sunlight Baptist Church to the 7th District Association and the Baptist State Convention, embodying the essence of service and community engagement. Her presence was a source of strength, comfort, and joy to many.

Beyond her commitments to faith and work, Louisa nurtured her creative passions with a zeal that brought warmth and vibrance into her days. Her skillful hands delighted in sewing, crafting garments and gifts that spoke of her care, while her melodious voice enriched church gatherings through singing, uplifting spirits and hearts.

Louisa was wed in holy matrimony to Albert James for over 58 years. To this union, three children were born, Alonzo, Nicholas, and Lydia.

Meeting her in Heaven are her parents John and Lydia Rene'; one sister JayAnna Williams; "brothers", Robert Veasy, Larry Branche, and Paul Anderson; and nephews, Michael Branche and Jaaman Anderson.

Those left to cherish her memories are her husband, Albert "Duck" James; her three children, Alonzo James of Lake Charles, Nicholas James, and Lydia James-Wells (Robert), all of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; grandchildren, Tyler Smith, Zyria Robinson, Ian James, Yasmyne Wells, Zayyir Wells, Brie James, Amari Wells, and Kamille James; great-grandchildren, Jolie Myles, Deion Washington, Denim Washington, and Sky James; siblings, Mary Branche of Lake Charles, Louisiana, Veanna Veasy of Dickerson, Texas, Geneva Anderson of Eunice Louisiana, and Kevin Rene' (Roni) of Long Beach, California; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends, including her New Sunlight Baptist Church family.

Louisa "Peggy" James leaves behind a life richly lived and a faith deeply held. Though she has departed from this physical realm, the imprint of her love, her dedication to her church, and her joyful spirit remain indelible. She will be profoundly missed by all who knew her, their hearts forever touched by her gentle soul and unwavering kindness.

Family and friends will gather to pay tribute at New Sunlight Baptist Church, located at 515 VE Washington Avenue in Lake Charles, Louisiana, on Saturday, April 4, 2026. The visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Her final resting place will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery #2, 2646 Opelousas Street, Lake Charles, where a burial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. under the direction of King's Funeral Home.