Isidore J Colson

Isidore J. Colson III, affectionately known as Honey, Izzy, Dad, Pops, Papaw, Uncle Jr., and Uncle Isidore, was born on February 2, 1932, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, to the late Isidore J. Colson II and Frances Llorens. A lifelong Catholic, he loved God, remained steadfast in his faith, and trusted in Jesus Christ throughout his life.

At the age of 16, Isidore discovered his passion for carpentry, a trade that would become both his profession and his creative outlet for more than six decades. Gifted with remarkable skill and craftsmanship, he became well known for his cabinetry, woodworking, and ability to build almost anything with his hands. Through hard work and dedication, he built a successful career and provided a strong foundation for his family. Isidore had a love for music. He taught himself to play the guitar by ear and became a favorite source of entertainment at family gatherings. For a brief period, he also performed with a band in neighborhoods throughout New Orleans. Whether singing songs or sharing stories, he brought joy and laughter wherever he went. Isidore enjoyed fishing, camping, family road trips, and spending time with loved ones. He especially cherished traveling back to New Orleans to reconnect with family and friends. His guitar and sense of humor were never far behind.

In 1953, Isidore was introduced to Mary Ann Romas, by one of her cousins. Their courtship was interrupted when he was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War era. In the early months of his service, his carpentry skills were utilized before he was deployed to Korea. Following his honorable discharge from the infantry in 1955, Isidore returned home and sought out the love of his life, Mary Ann. The two were married on August 18, 1956, beginning a loving partnership that would span 66 years. Together they were blessed with three sons: Brian, Kevin, and Juan.

In 1962, Isidore learned of a promising opportunity when Mary Ann's sister, Eunice, and brother-in-law, Wardell Charbonnet, shared news of the growing demand for skilled carpenters in California. Isidore moved to Los Angeles to establish himself before relocating Mary Ann and their sons, Brian and Kevin. His hard work and success enabled the family to enjoy new opportunities and a comfortable life. In 1964, their third son, Juan, was born, and Isidore and Mary Ann purchased their first home. Throughout his years in Los Angeles, Isidore worked successfully for numerous construction companies and private contractors, earning a reputation for quality workmanship and reliability.

During the mid-1970s, Isidore and Mary Ann opened Smokey Joe's barbecue restaurant in Watts, California. The restaurant was initially very successful, and customers loved Izzy's barbecue. After two years, they decided to sell the business, and Isidore returned to the craft he loved most, carpentry.

One of Isidore's greatest dreams was to build his own home. In 1997, after relocating to Henderson, Nevada, that dream became a reality when he personally built the home he and Mary Ann would lovingly share for many years. It stood as a testament to his vision, talent, and perseverance.

After the passing of his beloved Mary Ann in 2022, Isidore remained sustained by his faith and the love of his family. One of his greatest joys later in his life was attending the 2024 Colson Family Reunion in Natchitoches, where he reunited with relatives and celebrated his family's deep roots and heritage. He enjoyed western movies and television shows with a glass of red wine, sharing his trademark wisecracks, and spending time with those he loved.

Isidore will be remembered for his unwavering faith, strong work ethic, musical talent, quick wit, and deep devotion to family. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched, the homes he built, the music he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

Isidore was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ann Colson; his son, Brian Colson; and his three sisters: Shirley, Delores, and Frances. He leaves to cherish his memory his sons, Kevin Colson and Juan Colson (Donna); his grandchildren: Alysa, Royce, Vasti (Nico), Viel (Jig), and Valhalla (Lala) Colson; along with a host of godchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever in our hearts.

Funeral services with military honors will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Palm Henderson Cemetery, 800 South Boulder Highway, Henderson, NV 89015.

Isidore's final resting place will be at Palm Henderson Cemetery, 800 S Boulder Highway, Henderson.