Delores “Joy” East 

Published 5:00 am Saturday, November 9, 2024

Dolores “Joy” East, 87, of Lake Charles, passed away Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, at her residence with family by her side. A native and lifelong resident of Lake Charles, Joy was born on Sept. 11, 1937. She was a graduate of LaGrange High School and was a cosmetologist.

Joy was very involved in supporting Val, Warren and Donna throughout their school years. She was a Blue Bird Leader, Cub Scout Leader, LaGrange Booster club member and many other support roles. Joy loved to play cards with her friends and her son’s friends, often giving the losers back their money. Joy loved to play bingo, and activity that opened up new friendships for her. As a member of the Catholic Daughters of America, Joy supported the Catholic Church and volunteered for different roles. Joy loved to paint pictures of scenery along the Mermentau River and old homes in the Grand Chenier area. Cooking for her friends and her children’s friends brought happiness to Joy. She will be remembered for her kindness, support and consideration.

Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Donna Kiernan Carter and husband, Darrell; son, Leland Valery “Val” East Jr.; grandchildren, Jessica Hicks, Brittany Moss, Courtney Fluitt, Hayden East; great-grandchildren, Emma Hicks, Bryce Hicks, Jett Moss, London Moss and Emory Fluitt.

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She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Warren East, and her husband of 63 years, Leland Valery East Sr.

A time of gathering will be from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. with a Rosary to be recited at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, at Johnson Funeral Home, 4321 Lake St. Lake Charles, LA 70605. Visitation will continue Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, from 9 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. at St. Martin De Porres Catholic Church, 5495 Elliott Rd. Lake Charles, LA 70605. Burial will follow the Mass at Consolata Cemetery.