Wilda Jane Leonard Armato

Chenal, Louisiana - Wilda Jane Leonard Armato entered eternal rest surrounded by love and prayer on October 9, 2025. Her deep devotion to the Holy Rosary was the cornerstone of her faith—she prayed it several times a day, finding peace, strength, and purpose in every bead. Her steadfast faith guided her every step, and those who knew her felt the quiet grace of a woman whose heart was always lifted toward Heaven.

Born in New Roads to J.P. and Leona Leonard, Wilda was a proud Cajun-speaking Louisiana native who brought beauty into the world not only through her spirit but also through her work as a talented florist at many flower shops in our community. She especially cherished working side by side with her family each October, creating beautiful All Saints Day flower arrangements for their customers—a labor of love that combined her artistry, faith, and devotion to family tradition.

She had a passion for wedding bouquets and, for a while, had her own business called Wil's Weddings. She later retired from the floral department at Winn-Dixie in New Roads. A lifelong LSU Tiger fan, she cheered passionately for her team and loved the simple joys of life—Sunday drives, vacations, and any adventure that promised laughter and togetherness.

Wilda's greatest love was her family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Michael "Mickey" Armato; her daughter, Addie Armato Langlois, and son-in-law, Joseph Langlois, Jr.; her son, Michael "Mike" Armato, Jr.; and step-grandson, Alex Langlois. She is also survived by her sisters Merle Pinsonat, Emily Jarreau (Pete), and Jennifer O'Callaghan (Dan); as well as her nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will miss her warmth, humor, and unwavering faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, J.P. and Leona Leonard; mother-in-law, Lillian Armato; nephews, Justin and Jacob Jarreau; brother-in-law, Mitch Pinsonat, and many extended family and friends.

Wilda's life was one of devotion—to God, to family, and to finding joy in the everyday. Her faith-filled heart and radiant smile will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Lakeland, Louisiana. The Recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 11:30 a.m., followed by a visitation from Noon until 2:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 p.m. by Fr. Amrit Raj and Fr. Andrew Merrick, a special family friend. Interment will follow at Chenal Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be her son-in-law and nephews: Joseph Langlois, Jr., Matthew and Mitchell Pinsonat, Clayton and Travis O'Callaghan, and Devin Jarreau.

Rabenhorst Funeral Home is charged with the arrangements. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Lakeview Manor for their kindness, compassion, and the gentle care they provided to Wilda.

Memorial donations can be made to the Cenacle on the Lake Retreat Center 5500 St. Mary Street, Metairie, LA 70006 or a charity of your choosing.