James Oren Boudreaux, affectionately known as "Poppy," passed away at his home in Grand Lake, Louisiana, on July 3, 2025, at the age of 70. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion, hard work, and love that will live on through the countless lives he touched.
Born on November 5, 1954, in Jennings, Louisiana, James was the beloved son of Ina Richard Boudreaux and Oren Joseph Boudreaux of Creole, LA. James was a proud graduate of South Cameron High School, Class of 1972. Shortly after, he began his career at Crain Brothers before moving on to Conoco Phillips in 1974, where he worked until his retirement in 2007. Over the course of 33 years, James's work in production management took him across the globe, including Dubai, Jakarta, Venezuela, Nigeria, Spain, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam, and Papua New Guinea— as well as domestically in Texas and Louisiana. His work ethic and leadership earned him the respect of colleagues and friends worldwide, but he always remained humble, grounded, and true to his roots.
He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Toni Cheramie Boudreaux; his three loving children Carrie Navarre-Myers (Rod Myers), Melissa Groves (Adam Nucci) and Marcus Boudreaux (Jamie); his grandchildren, the true joys of his life, include: Hailey and Abby Groves, Kaitlyn and Bryce Navarre, Colstyn and Greigh Boudreaux, Peyton and Regan Myers (Breanna). James took immense pride in each of them, celebrating every milestone, cherishing every fishing trip, hunting adventure and memory shared with them. James is also survived by his siblings: brothers, Jeffery Boudreaux (Brenda) and Robert Dale Richard (Frances); sister, Sheila Trahan.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Oren and Ina Boudreaux; son-in-law, Billy Navarre; brothers-in-law, Billy Ray Trahan, Marlon Miller and Stephen Cheramie.
More than his professional achievements, James will be remembered for his heart. He was a family man through and through —a man who lived to love and serve his family. Together, they traveled the world, they built a family full of warmth, laughter, and resilience. He was the rock of his family —a meticulous, kind-hearted man with a servant's heart and a passion for caring for others. His love language was acts of service, and he lived every day seeking to provide, protect, and uplift those around him.
A true jack of all trades, James took pride in being the family handyman. Whether it was fixing a leaky faucet, or simply cutting grass (something he genuinely loved), he found joy in lending a hand. If something needed doing, James was the first to show up - with a tool in one hand and a smile on his face.
He was deeply thankful for his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws who brought him joy and laughter over the years. His family was his pride and he never missed a chance to show it-especially in the kitchen, where he poured love into every meal he cooked.
The family will host a come-and-go celebration on Monday, July 7, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. to honor the incredible man he was and the legacy he leaves behind.
James Oren Boudreaux will be missed beyond measure but remembered always-with love, admiration, and the deepest gratitude.
Rest in peace Poppy. Your heart was truly the biggest of them all.
