Loretta Johse

Loretta Wells Johse, 87, of Hamshire, passed away peacefully in her daughter's home on March 2, 2026.

Born on January 22, 1939, to Richard and Gladys Wells, Loretta was a proud graduate of Hamshire New Holland High School, Class of 1957, where she served as drum major and played basketball. Her love for her school community continued throughout her life. She began working at the consolidated school as an aide and later served as the principal's secretary at Hamshire-Fannett Middle School for 25 years, where she became a steady and familiar presence to students, teachers, and families alike.

Loretta was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Lola Mae; her brother, Richard; and the love of her life, her husband of 50 years, Otis Lee Johse.

She is survived by her daughter, Lea Ann Cossey, and son, Scott Johse, both of Hamshire; her grandchildren, Leslie Ann Young, Finley Cossey, and Samantha Diaz; her great-grandchildren, Kasyn, Roman, Korvyn, Jordan, and Eddie; and her sister, Vivian Holder of Winnie.

Loretta loved to shop and had a generous spirit that made giving one of her greatest joys. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family. She was spirited, sassy, and deeply devoted to the people she loved - a woman whose presence will be missed but whose influence will live on in the hearts of her family.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, 9894 Gilbert Road, Beaumont, Texas 77705.

A gathering of Mrs. Johse's family and friends will begin at 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Broussard's, 134 West Buccaneer Drive, Winnie. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m., Friday, March 6, 2026, at St. Mary Catholic Church, 9894 Gilbert Road, Fannett. Her interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Winnie.