James Rene DeLaune

James Rene DeLaune of Zachary, Louisiana, known to his family and his many friends as Rene, died on June 2nd, 2025 after a short illness.

Rene was born on January 19, 1947 in Lake Charles, Louisiana and lived for many years in Pineville, Louisiana. He graduated with an MSW from LSU, and followed LSU sports passionately for the rest of his life. He retired after working for the State of Louisiana and Progressive PHP for over 40 years as a social worker specializing in mental health care. In his retirement, he focused on caring for and supporting his family members, chosen family, and friends, and enjoying his love of live blues music. Rene also spent many years feeding his loved ones with food that he grew in his home garden. He was an expert cook who made sure to pass on his delicious gumbo recipe to his children and grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, J. Burton and Iva DeLaune, his wife Andra DeLaune, and his wife Mona DeLaune.

He is survived by his two children, Joanna DeLaune and Jonathan “Zack” DeLaune, daughter-in-law Jennifer, grandchildren Linus and Wylie, and a host of other family members and friends.

Special thanks to his daughters by marriage Julie Rundell and Cristy Dugas and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who he loved dearly, dear friends Calli Theriot and Joe Phillips, and to his extended “family” at Sidelines Grill in Zachary.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 7 at 2 PM at Milldale Baptist Church, 11950 Milldale Rd, in Zachary, LA.