Dorothy Elaine (Beard) LeJeune, known affectionately to her family as Laine-Girl, died Monday, August 7, in Baton Rouge at age 82. She was born in Lake Charles, LA to Margaret and Otis Beard. She was preceded in death by her parents, by her beloved husband, Leven, and by her older brother, Byron. She is survived by her immediate family, Marie (sister) and Maurice Rumbarger of Hagerstown, MD; Ginger (sister) and Ed Kainer of Houston, TX; and Raymond “Pat” (brother) and Lori Cruse Beard of Gulf Breeze, FL; nephew Sean (Melodie); nieces Tara (Jim), Ashley (Tom), Stacie (Robert), Jennifer (Kirk), as well as numerous great nieces, nephews and a great-grand niece all of whom she loved dearly. Dorothy’s extended “second” family included her numerous close friends with whom she shared many holidays and special occasions.
She dedicated her career as a financial consultant and planner for 30 years, providing valuable guidance to her clients.
Dorothy was a kind and generous soul with a disarming sense of humor and a sense of fairness that touched the lives of many. She was devoted to her church, St. Thomas More Church, where she and her late husband Leven were long time volunteers, including heading the operations of its 24-hour Adoration Chapel for many years. Dorothy was also a long-time volunteer with various organizations, including The Society of St. Vincent de Paul. She was a passionate defender of animals (especially cats!), and cared deeply for the protection and humane treatment of all animals, wild and domestic.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects and to share cherished memories at a visitation on Thursday, August 10 between 5 and 8 p.m. at Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 11000 Florida Blvd. in Baton Rouge. On Friday, August 11, a Requiem Mass will be held at 11 am at St. Thomas More Catholic Church on Goodwood Boulevard followed by a graveside service at St. George Cemetery on Siegen Lane.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or to the American Humane Society.
Dorothy's legacy of kindness, generosity, and humor will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be greatly missed. May she rest in eternal peace.
