Jean Turner Sawyer

Lafayette--Jean “Jeannie” Turner Sawyer, 73, of Lafayette, LA, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on October 11, 2024, after a courageous and long-fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at David Funeral Home, 316 Youngsville Hwy, Lafayette, LA 70508, from 8:30 a.m. until the service time at 12:00 p.m. at David Funeral Home Chapel with Fr. Kyle White officiating. Entombment will follow at St. Anne Catholic Mausoleum in Youngsville.

Born in Houma, Louisiana, Jeannie was the daughter of Mercedes Avet and Thomas Warren Turner, Sr. She was a proud graduate of Vandebilt Catholic High School and earned her degree from Nicholls State University, where her journey as an educator began.

Jeannie dedicated her life to nurturing young minds as a beloved teacher for over thirty years at St. Cecilia School in Broussard and Myrtle Place Elementary in Lafayette. Her passion for education and unwavering commitment to her students made her a cherished figure in their lives—many of whom fondly referred to her as their favorite teacher. Jeannie’s influence extended beyond the classroom; she inspired countless children to pursue their dreams, always believing in their potential.

In her younger years, Jeannie pursued acrobatics, dancing, and tennis. She had two speeds, fast and faster! Beyond her teaching career, Jeannie was an avid camper who relished adventures in campgrounds across the United States. She cherished the time spent with her family, always eager to hear about their activities and stories, creating countless memories filled with love and laughter.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 41 years, Thomas W. Sawyer; her loving children, Brian DeHart and wife Courtney, Rebecca Sawyer Comeaux and husband Walter, Thomas Wade Sawyer, II., Jason Paul Sawyer; her sister, Laurie Turner Conkerton and husband John; and her adored grandchildren, Bailey, Rowan, Rami, Cameron DeHart, Andrew and Alyssa Moresi, Quin and Corinne Comeaux, and Ben Sawyer.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas, and Mercedes Avet Turner, and her siblings, Lizbeth “Beth” Turner, and Thomas Warren Turner, Jr.

Pallbearers are Wade Sawyer, Walter Comeaux IV, John Conkerton, Rob McCarthy, Richard Broussard and Russell Turner, Jr.

Honorary Pallbearers are Bailey DeHart, and Cameron DeHart.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Right At Home In Home Care & Assistance sitter, Monica Dukelow, and Community Hospice Care, Dr. Eric Fontenot; nurses, Zack David and Penny Navarre, for their compassionate care and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites you to make a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, the Davis Phinney Foundation, or the Parkinson's Foundation in honor of Jeannie's memory. Your contributions will help support important research and services for those affected by Parkinson’s disease.

Jeannie’s selfless spirit and kindness will forever be remembered by all who knew her, leaving a lasting legacy of love in the hearts of her family and friends. Family and friends may sign the guest register book and/or send condolences at www.davidfuneralhome.org

Frioux-David Funeral Home of New Iberia, 316 Youngsville Hwy Lafayette, LA 705508 337-837-9887 is in charge of arrangements.