Joann Louise Laphand, 76, the beloved matriarch of Joann's clan, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, on January 28, at 4:27 PM. Born as a triplet on April 25, 1948, in Pineville, Rapides Parish, Louisiana, to the late Virgie Beryl Normand-Salvant and Melvin Weems, she lived a life full of love and devotion.

She was a member of Our Mother of Mercy Catholic Church in Pass Christian, MS, since moving to Pass Christian in the early '70s. Joann was baptized, received her sacraments, and served as a member at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Marksville, LA. She attended Holy Ghost Catholic School and Randolph High School in Pass Christian, MS.

For many years, she worked at Island View and Casino Magic. With a warm smile and ever-present kindness, she quickly became a beloved figure among coworkers and guests alike.

Born with a heart full of love, Joann dedicated her life to her family. A devoted mother, wife, grandmother, and friend, she touched the lives of everyone who knew her with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support. She was the cornerstone of her family, always ready with a listening ear, a warm hug, or a piece of advice when needed. She lived with grace, compassion, and a deep love for those closest to her. Her legacy will live on in the countless lives she enriched with her love and her spirit.

Joann is preceded in death by her husband, Jesse Lee Laphand; her parents, Virgie Beryl Normand-Salvant and Melvin Weems; stepfather, William Salvant; stepmother, Iona Williams; beloved triplet brothers, Joe Normand (Sandra) and Gerald Normand (Margie); sister, Grady Weems; and stepbrother, Richard Williams.

She is survived by her spouse, Aubrey Labat; her sister, Rita Normand; her children, Turner (Leslie) Charles Brown Jr., Marvin (Eva) Keno Brown, Keoki (Rachel) Lee Laphand, and Kelly Melvina (Michael) Laphand-Whiddon; her stepchildren, Carol (Ray) Laphand Jones, Jesse Lee Laphand Jr., Andrea (Earlie) Laphand Davis, Regina Buckley, Henry Labat, and Lillian Labat; 24 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.