June Bertoneau Cognevich

June Bertoneau Cognevich, 80, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2024, leaving behind her husband of 54 years, Kenneth John Cognevich Sr, son, Kenneth "John" Cognevich Jr (Katie), and daughter Tonya Wellman (Greg). June is also survived by her four grandchildren, Kacey Cognevich, Connor, Mary Catherine and Amelie Wellman. She is preceded in death by her parents Eddie and Bernice (Juneau) Bertoneau and sister Patricia Ayrod (Benny).

June entered the Sisters of Incarnate Word at the age of 16 inspired by the nuns at St. Catherine of Sienna school. She remained a religious for eight years and taught at Chapelle High School as Sr. June Marie. After prayerful contemplation, June decided to follow a different calling and serve the church as a lay person. She was a member of St. Matthew's parish for fifty years and worked as a substitute then full-time teacher for six years. There, she formed a relationship with the Teresian Sisters and became their first lay Associate. June loved the culture and history of her city and often shared her knowledge of New Orleans with visitors. She was president and member of the Shady Oaks Garden Club, Cancer Crusaders, and was a Dame of the Holy Sepulchre. She volunteered at the Father Harry Tompson Center and John H. Martyn Alternative School.

June's true vocation was teaching her Catholic faith to hundreds of children. After earning her Master of Religious Education from Loyola University, June began an eight year career at St. Clement of Rome School as Director of Religious Education. During this time and beyond, she also served as a spiritual advisor to those in need.

June's greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was raising her two children and spending time as "Amie" with her four grandchildren. Her unconditional love, enthusiasm, and pride for her grandchildren was evident to all who interacted with her.

Friends and relatives are invited to attend a funeral mass on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 12:00 noon at St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church, River Ridge. Visitation will begin at 10:00 and continue until mass time. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Teresian Sisters attn: Sr. Gloria Murillo 18104 St. Joseph's Way, Covington, LA 70435.