Joan Marie Staidum

Joan Marie Brown Staidum was born on October 22, 1959, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late David and Margaret J. Brown. She peacefully entered eternal rest on May 31, 2025. Joan was a beloved daughter, extraordinary sister, devoted mother, proud grandmother, cherished aunt, and treasured godmother. Known for her kind spirit and generous heart, Joan had a deep passion for helping others. A warm and engaging conversationalist, she formed lasting bonds with her neighbors on both Stovall and Hobson Street.

Visitation will be 9am until funeral time 11am Saturday June 14th, 2025, House of the Lord Church 523 Hobson St. Houma, La 70360 Interment following service Crescent Farm Cemetery.

Joan was baptized at an early age by Pastor N. White at New St. Matthews Baptist Church. A proud 1978 graduate of Terrebonne High School and attended University of Lafayette she later rededicated her life to Christ and became an active member of The House of the Lord Church under the leadership of Pastor Troy James. There, she faithfully served as an usher and church mother enthusiastically participating in every church event.

Family was the cornerstone of Joan’s life. She loved spending quality time with her loved ones, whether it was traveling, taking cruises with family and friends, or indulging in her favorite pastime—shopping.

Joan was also deeply involved in community and service organizations. A passionate bowler since the age of 18, she was a proud member of the LA Pank 360 Bowling Team. She was also a dedicated member of the Order of Eastern Star Golden Leaf Chapter #107 for 27 years. In 1979, she became a charter member of the Upsilon Iota Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and more recently, joined the graduate chapter, Epsilon Alpha Theta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Her professional life reflected her commitment to hard work and loyalty. Joan was a devoted employee of TARC for 20 years and proudly served at Wal-Mart Store #542 for 24 years.

On July 23, 1983, Joan joined in marriage to Allen Staidum Jr. From their union came two beloved daughters: Ariella Nicole and Anais Nicole.

Joan leaves to cherish her precious memories: Her daughters, Ariella Staidum and Anais (Michael) Navarre; Her supportive ex-husband, Allen Staidum Jr.; Her twin sister, Jean Marie Brown, and sister Deirdre (Pastor Troy) James; Her brothers, Andrew Matthews and Byron Brown Sr.; Her adored grandson, Jahuan Carter; Bonus sisters: Dr. Edna Cosey, Paulette Hayes, Sarah Jones, Belinda Matthews, and Lisa Malveaux; Bonus children: Charlette Williams, Tracey (Donald) Strawder, and Darren Tillman; Godchildren: Pastor Phillip Ruffin Sr., Tracy A. Brown, Theresial J. Chatman, John Walker Jr., Treyvon “Sam” Clay, and Byron Brown Jr.; Godbrother, Lawrence Hayes Jr., and God sisters, Elizabeth Matthews, Florence Turner, and K’Sciyah Nelson; Two uncles, Earl Johnson Jr. and Willie (Ann) Brown; In-laws: Pastor Troy James,

Gwendolyn (Leslie) Joseph, Angela (Walter) Myles, Isaiah Lawson Sr., Frederick (Janice) Staidum, Carlton Staidum Sr., and Marilyn (Tyrone) Bolden; Her beloved dog, Coco as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, David and Margaret J. Brown; her brother, David Brown Jr.; 10 aunts and 8 uncles; her paternal grandparents, James and Beulah Durkins Brown; maternal grandparents, Earl and Zenobia H. Johnson; in-laws, Allen and Deborah Staidum Sr.; sister-in-law, Gerraund Lawson; brother-in-law, Jason Staidum; and godbrothers, Leon Johnson, Wayne Harvey, and Floyd McGuire.

Joan’s light, laughter, and love touched countless lives. Her legacy of faith, service, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.