By: TONY MARKS
Editor
Fran Monique Lemelle, the principal of James Stephens Montessori since 2023, passed away in the early morning hours of Monday, March 9.
Funeral services for Lemelle, 51, will be held on Saturday, March 14, at 11 a.m., with the visitation beginning at 9 a.m., at New Zion Baptist Church in Eunice. Rev. Allen Ben will officiate the homegoing ceremony. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Eunice.
Filled with empty wells of loneliness, according to her obituary, are her devoted husband, Chad Lemelle, of Eunice; her parents, Vera Price Anderson and Larry Reed, both of Eunice; four loving daughters, Robbi Palmer, Josi, Cayli, and Hali Lemelle; one sister, Tracey Reed, of Eunice; and one brother, Brad Harmon, of Lake Charles; and a host of other relatives and friends.
In a social media post, James Stephens Montessori School stated, “It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our beloved principal. She was more than a leader to our school—she was a guiding light, a source of encouragement, and a caring presence for our students, staff, and families. Her dedication to the children and to Montessori touched countless lives and helped shape our school into the special community it is today.”
“During this difficult time, we ask that you keep her family, loved ones, and our entire school community in your thoughts and prayers. The loss is deeply felt by all of us, and we know many students and families are grieving alongside the staff.”
“Let us honor her memory by continuing to show kindness, compassion, and support for one another—values she worked so hard to nurture in our school each day.”
“Additional information about ways our school community may come together to remember and celebrate her life will be shared when available.”
“Thank you for keeping our school and her family in your prayers during this time of loss.”
Owens-Thomas Funeral Home, of Eunice, is in charge of arrangements.
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