Jude "Byron" LeJeune

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jude "Byron" LeJeune, who left us peacefully on September 7, 2026, at the age of 72. Born on August 16, 1954, in Jennings Louisiana, he wore many hats in life; his favorite role was being a dedicated father "Poppa" a cherished brother to his siblings, and a special Uncle to many nieces and nephews. His life was filled with laughter, and a deep love for his friends and family. Growing up Byron attended Hathaway High School and graduated in 1972. He was in many activities and clubs including, 4-H, FFA, basketball, track and field, which he represented Hathaway High School by winning state discus champion. He could speak 3 languages, English, French, and Spanish. Byron was a helper to many farmers preparing land and harvesting crops. After High School Byron attended McNeese State University and then moved to Texas to continue his education and received his Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science at West Texas State University. Additionally, he will be remembered for his dedication to rodeo, performance horsemanship, his steadfast character, and the lasting friendships he built in and beyond the arena.

A respected PRCA rodeo cowboy, during the 1970s and 1980s, Byron competed as a steer roper. In July 1981, at the renowned Cheyenne Frontier Days, he recorded a 17.4-second run and stood second in the go-round standings at that stage of the competition, He approached every run with determination and respect-for the sport, the livestock, his fellow competitors, and the traditions of the West. Byron was the only Louisiana man to qualify for the National Finals in Steer Roping.

Away from PRCA competition, Byron remained deeply connected to the horse and cattle industries. He was actively involved in the American Quarter Horse Association and the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, and he partnered in cattle operations for both the Burr Ranch and the Moon Ranch. These pursuits reflected his lifelong appreciation for Quarter Horses, ranching, and the traditions of rodeo and the Western way of life. His example of hard work, loyalty, and perseverance will continue to inspire the rodeo, Quarter Horse, and ranching communities and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Byron is survived by his daughter Katherine "Shug" LeJeune of Hathaway, Louisiana; son Logan Jude LeJeune of Elton, Louisiana; brothers, Brennon (Nancy) of Eunice, Louisiana, Dwayne (Dana) of Scott, Louisiana; sisters, Emily (Robert) Doucet of Hathaway, Louisiana, Alice Claire (Deacon Mike) Tramel of Hathaway, Louisiana, Therese (Steve) Campbell of Carrollton, Texas, Catherine (Mark) Marceaux of Kaplan, Louisiana; sister-in-law, Sandy LeJeune of Roanoke, Louisiana; as well as many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by parents Alaven "Bib" and Aurore "Ora" LeJeune. Foster parents Walter "Uncle Son" and Azeline "Aunt Shug" Guillotte, his brothers, Winston, Phil (Wanda), and Al LeJeune, and his nieces, Shonda LeJeune Laredo and Emily Tramel.

Byron's family and friends will gather to celebrate his life on September 11, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:45 PM, at Miguez Funeral Home in Jennings, Louisiana. A rosary will be held at 1:00 PM in the chapel led by Deacon Mike Tramel. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:30 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Hathaway, Louisiana with Father Bill Miller officiating. He will be laid to rest in Doucet Cemetery under the direction of Miguez Funeral Home. 

Please join us in honoring the life of Byron LeJeune; a remarkable man who touched the heart of many. His memory will live on in the stories we share and the love we carry for him. 

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions.

Happy trails to you, until we meet again, the cowboy rides away.