Janeita Charrier Townsend

A Mass of Christian Burial to honor and celebrate the life of Janeita Charrier Townsend, 90 of Cheneyville, will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Cheneyville, LA with Msgr. Stephen Scott Chemino officiating. Following the Mass, she will be laid to rest at St. Joseph Catholic Church Cemetery. Visitation will take place before Mass from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Hixson-Ducote Funeral Home in Bunkie, LA.
Janeita peacefully entered eternal rest the day after commemorating her 90th birthday, Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Hospice of Acadiana's Calcutta House, surrounded by her loving family and the heartfelt prayers of those she touched.
Born on March 13, 1934, in Bunkie, Louisiana, Janeita's life journey was a testament to faith, compassion, and service to others. Growing up as one of six siblings, she was immersed in the nurturing embrace of her loving family. She attended grade school at St. Anthony Padua Catholic School and was a graduate of Bunkie High School. Commencing her dedicated career at Bunkie General Hospital, she eventually retired as the esteemed hospital's purchasing agent. Janeita's vibrant spirit led her to embrace numerous careers post-retirement, driven by her innate desire to stay engaged and her passion for serving others.
Janeita was treasured as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend endeared by all who knew her. She was married to her beloved husband, Johnnie E. Townsend, Sr., with whom she shared 50 years of profound love and companionship until his passing. Together, they planted their roots in Cheneyville, Louisiana, where they nurtured a beautiful family and exemplified a legacy of love and commitment. As a mother, Janeita provided endless love, support, and guidance to her children. She cherished her role as a grandmother, always doting on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She found solace in the simplest pleasures of life-time spent with family and friends.
Her infectious smile, hearty laughter, sharp wit, and compassionate heart charmed all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her culinary skills brought delight to many, ensuring that no one around her ever went hungry. A talented seamstress, she exhibited a flair for creativity enabling her to create and sketch her own sewing patterns. She crafted exquisite wedding dresses, prom gowns, and draperies. She was proud of her ability to outfit her children but even more so, her grandchildren. Her artistic talents extended to assisting in designing costumes and stage sets for local community plays.
Janeita's devout faith and active involvement in her parish community were integral to her life. She served as a dedicated member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, contributing as a Eucharistic Minister, choir member, and member of the St. Joseph Altar Society. Her altruistic nature extended beyond the church walls, as she generously volunteered her time and talents to various charitable endeavors.
If you were familiar with Janeita, you'd recognize her affinity for taking charge. She thrived in leadership roles. A respected pillar of her community, Janeita dedicated many years to the Town Council and briefly assumed the role of Interim Mayor of Cheneyville. She took immense pride in her town and found joy in actively participating in community service initiatives. Her approach to every endeavor was marked by grace, a hint of sass, and a welcoming smile.
Janeita was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Johnnie E. Townsend, Sr.; her devoted parents, Paul and Sadonia Ducote Charrier; step-mother, Nora Nicholson Charrier; two sisters, Julia Banks and Beverly Dupre'; four brothers, Floyd Charrier, Paul "Nicky" Charrier, Leonard Charrier, and Louis Charrier; and grandson-in-law, Joe Rice Ferguson, IV.
Those left to cherish her memory are her four adoring children, Cheryl Townsend Borer (Ronnie) of Walker, Johnnie E. Townsend, Jr. of Cheneyville, Cynthia Townsend Bennett of Lafayette, and James P. Townsend of League City, TX; her seven beloved grandchildren, Troy Borer, Tracy Borer, Jessica Lyles, Natalie Lyles Ferguson, Whitney Lyles Habetz (Hans), Joshua Townsend (Nicole), and James Ryan Townsend; her ten cherished great-grandchildren, Trysten Borer Howze (Clayton), Adison Lemoine, Rylee Townsend, Kinslee Townsend, Tucker Townsend, Kolten Townsend, Braxton Blanchard, Maddox Munro, Stella Habetz, and Leo Habetz; her sister-in-law, Linda Townsend Mayeaux; her brother-in-law, Roy Townsend (Gilda); and numerous nieces and nephews.
Upholding the honor of pallbearers will be Troy Borer, Josh Townsend, James Ryan Townsend, Braxton Blanchard, Hans Habetz, and Clayton Howze.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Joe Johnston and the dedicated staff at Hospice of Acadiana's Calcutta House for their incredible love, compassion, and tender care during Janeita's transition to her heavenly home.
Janeita will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength throughout her life. Her legacy of steadfast compassion, boundless generosity, and unstoppable determination will continue to inspire us all. May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to us all as her radiant spirit continues to illuminate the lives she touched.
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