Joy Bani

A loving wife, mother and grandmother, Joy Bani died peacefully Sunday evening, March 22, 2009, at her home. She was 83, born in Baton Rouge and raised in Lakeland. She was a graduate of Rougon High School, where she was valedictorian of her class. After receiving a degree in business from LSU, she was employed as a legal secretary in the firm of Watson, Blanche, Wilson and Posner. Married to her beloved husband, John A. Bani for 58 years, Joy treasured her family and home. She lovingly assisted and supported John in the establishment and operation of his architectural practice by serving as business manager. Her many hobbies included cooking, golf, gardening, and she was known for growing exceptional roses. She enjoyed her friendships with the ladies of her golf and sewing clubs. Joy was active in many school and church groups, including the parents association of Sacred Heart Elementary School, Catholic High Mothers' Club and St. Joseph Cathedral, where she served as a hospitality minister. Visitation at St. Joseph Cathedral, 412 North St., on Thursday, March 26, from 8 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. with her son, the Rev. J. Cary Bani presiding. Interment at Roselawn Memorial Park. She is survived by her two children, Lynn Anne Bani Carville and husband Henry, and the Rev. J. Cary Bani, all of Baton Rouge; and three grandsons, Brian, Bradley and Brett Carville. She was preceded in death by her husband, John A. Bani; parents, Conrad Roger and Gertrude Neff; two brothers, Conrad Roger Neff Jr. and Thomas C. Neff; and a granddaughter, Leah Anne Carville. Pallbearers will be her grandsons, as well as Henry J. Carville, Charles St. Romain and Mark and Malloy Moulis. The family would like to thank all of Joy's loving caregivers, especially Ruby, Katie, Mary, Tonda, Alma and Wilbur. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Catholic High School, St. Joseph Academy or St. Joseph Cathedral.