It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Johanna Latiolais Badon. A beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She departed this world peacefully on Monday, June 23, 2025, surrounded by love and faith, to be with her Lord — whom she loved above all else.
Born on December 31, 1938, in Catahoula, LA to the late Philip and Carmelite Blanchard Latiolais.
A devoted Catholic and faithful servant of God, Johanna lived a life rooted in compassion, generosity, and unwavering faith. Her soul radiated kindness, and her days were spent ministering to the sick and weak, offering her wisdom, comfort, and a listening heart. She lived not for herself, but for others, always ready to rally in times of need.
Johanna held a deep affection for the Carmelite Monastery, where she served joyfully for many years as the front desk portress. Her dedication extended far beyond the front desk — she worked tirelessly to connect the monastery with local donors to meet its needs, all with humility and a servant’s heart.
Professionally, Johanna spent over 40 years as a travel agent, fueled by her passion for exploration and wonder. She marveled at the beauty of life, always eager to discover new places and share that joy with others. Her spirit was adventurous, her laughter contagious, and her stories unforgettable.
Johanna was blessed with the presence of many angels here on earth — the compassionate and caring staff at River Oaks Nursing Home, including Marsha, Shaquanna, Ms. Pat, Sunshine, Keisha, Satchy, Janita, and many more. Her devoted caretakers, Angie Guidry, Mitzi Guidry, and Leah Schmidt, and others, were constant sources of love and support. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the extraordinary team at Hospice of Acadiana, whose care and compassion were a true gift — with special gratitude to Dr. Tami LaGraize and Steve Landry.
Johanna’s life was a testament to faith, love, and service. Though she has left our physical world, her spirit lives on in every act of kindness, every shared memory, and every prayer whispered in her name. We rejoice in knowing she is now embraced by the love of God she cherished so deeply.
Her legacy is one of love, light, and unshakeable faith — a life well-lived, and a soul well-loved.
She is survived by her two daughters, Bonnie B. Leonard and husband Jackie Paul Leonard and Michelle B. Bronner and husband Gerald Joseph Bronner, Jr.; five grandchildren, Julian Philip Leonard, Tyler Paul Listi, Alexis Anne Bronner, Gabrielle Jordan Bronner and Bailey Brianna Bronner; one great granddaughter, Cecilia Anne Collins; one sister, Susan Latiolais Tauzin and husband Ronnie Tauzin; two nieces, Denise Tauzin D’Amato and Dr. Tami LaGraize and husband Dr. Christopher LaGraize; four great nieces, Zoe D’Amato, Ava D’Amato, Sophie LaGraize and Elise LaGraize and one great nephew, Nicolas LaGraize.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025, at 2:00 pm at St. Rita’s Catholic Church in Catahoula. Fr. Bill Melancon will officiate. Johanna will be laid to rest at Our Lady of the Lake Mausoleum in Catahoula.
Family and friends are invited to gather at St. Rita’s Catholic Church on Friday, June 27, 2025, from 1:00 pm until time of service.
Memorial donations may be made in her name to Hospice of Acadiana and/or the Carmelite Monastery.
Relatives and friends are invited to share their condolences and memories at
www.evangelinest.martinville.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of St. Martinville is in charge of arrangements.
