Barbara J. LaCiura passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at the age of 85. Her final days were spent surrounded by her family, sharing stories about her very memorable life. Barbara was predeceased by her two sisters, Raynell LaCiura and Darleen Morris; her brother, Larry McLeod; and her parents Raymond Adolph McLeod and Hettie Gailey Lantz McLeod. She is survived by her loving husband Salvador LaCiura; her daughters, Debra H. Pertuis (Andre), Terry Lee (Byron) and her son Elmer L. Hathaway, Jr. Stepmother of Salvador LaCiura, Jr. (Sean), and Tammy Bourg (Kevin). She is also survived and fondly remembered her 12 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Born on April 30, 1939, in Tampa, FL, Barbara spent much of her life in St. Bernard Parish before making her home in Hammond, LA. Her lifelong passion was teaching, particularly in preschool and kindergarten. Her career spanned over 40 years, beginning at Trinity Baptist Church. When that school closed, Barbara continued her dedication to early childhood education at Premier Kid Care. Upon the retirement of the school's owner, Barbara took on the role of owner herself, driven by her love for nurturing young minds. Even in retirement, her commitment to teaching never wavered; she started a daycare in her home to remain engaged with the children she adored. Barbara’s creative spirit extended beyond the classroom.
She was an avid enthusiast of arts and crafts, often found at Craft Shows displaying her creations. Her love for collecting dolls and reading James Patterson murder mysteries were some of her greatest joys. In her later years, Barbara enjoyed working on Paint by Diamond arts projects, savoring a Pepsi and Hershey bar, and spending quality time with her faithful puppy, Buddy, by her side on the sofa. She was affectionately known for her curiosity, enthusiasm, good nature and generous heart. Rest in peace, dear Barbara. You will be deeply missed by your family and forever remembered by all those whose lives you touched and inspired over the years. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a a visitation 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. followed by a Funeral Service in Barbara’s memory beginning at 1 p.m. to be held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. Interment: St. Bernard Memorial Gardens, Chalmette, La.