Leroy Joseph LeBlanc

Leroy Joseph (L.J.) LeBlanc, 90, passed away on November 3, 2026. Born on September 22, 1936, Leroy lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, and love for his family. He always had a smile on his face and was known for his easygoing, sweet personality, generous nature, love of sharing stories from his life, and enjoyment of being called PawPaw.

A graduate of Abbeville High School, Class of 1954, Leroy went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Army Reserve, attaining the rank of Private First Class before his discharge on April 30, 1961.

Leroy began his career first as a stock boy and then worked his way up to store manager with Woolworth’s in both Louisiana and Texas before pursuing his entrepreneurial spirit. He owned and operated H & K Pet Shop in Houston from 1967 to 1977, followed by LeBlanc's Home & Auto in Corrigan from 1977 until his retirement. Through the years, his work reflected his determination, business sense, and commitment to serving his community.

A longtime member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Lufkin, Leroy was a man of profound faith and led his household by a quiet, powerful example of Christian Catholic virtue. He dedicated his life to protecting, providing for, and spiritually guiding his children and spouse. He leaves behind a legacy anchored in the Sacraments and unconditional love. Leroy found enjoyment in coin collecting and gardening. His childhood Cajun heritage was defined by profound resilience, resourcefulness, and hard work in cotton and sugarcane farming, in addition to learning from his father how to provide food for the family. He also enjoyed a little adventure and quite often told his wife, "Pack up momma! Let's go to the casino!" Those spontaneous trips were just one of the many ways he enjoyed life and made memories along the way.

Leroy was preceded in death by his father, Bernard LeBlanc; his mother, Nelia (Vincent) LeBlanc; his brothers, Nelson LeBlanc and Lawerson LeBlanc; and his son-in-law, Charles Goodwin.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Belva Jean Meshell LeBlanc, whom he married on August 6, 1960; his daughters, Ramona LeBlanc Adams and husband Quincy of Ruston, Louisiana, and Yvette LeBlanc Goodwin of Forney, Texas; his sons, Michael LeBlanc and Hoa Nguyen, and Alan LeBlanc of Livingston, Texas; and numerous close family friends.

He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Kimberly Adams and husband Chance of Eustace, Texas, and Cameron LeBlanc and husband Ben of Ruston, Louisiana; great-grandchildren, Madelyn and Thomas Adams of Eustace, Texas; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Hospice in the Pines, Fr. Denzil Vithanage, and Bishop Eduardo Nevares, formerly from St Patrick’s Catholic Church, as well as the many family members, friends, and neighbors who offered their kindness, care, and support over the past several months.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, November 8, 2026, at Gipson Funeral Home, 1515 South Chestnut Street, Lufkin, Texas 75901.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, November 9, 2026, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, 2118 Lowry Street, Lufkin, Texas 75901.

Pallbearers will be Quincy Adams, Ben LeBlanc, Chance Adams, Rodney Mahan, Jarrod Meshell, and Keith Loving.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Patrick's Catholic Church or Hospice in the Pines.

Leroy will be remembered for the life he built, the dedication he gave to his family and work, and the memories he leaves behind in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

"Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen."