02/13/2018
Julian Rock “J.R.” Lemoine, 83, of Sardis, TX died on February 12th due to complications following a car accident. J.R. was a tinkerer, cigar-smoker, Dallas Cowboys fan, John Wayne devotee, and proud patriarch of the Lemoine brood. His family gathered around him in love and preparation, but as a true Christian, his spirit never flagged, bolstered in the knowledge that death is not final in Christ.
J.R. will be remembered as the father who led songs as Music Director at Sardis Missionary Baptist when his children were little, and a Papaw who always made sure to start holiday meals with a prayer, and the man who ended Christmas Eve with a celebratory boom of fireworks. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Lemoine and his children, Lisa Christian, Marty Lemoine, Tammy Lemoine, and Joey Lemoine. Twelve grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren carry on J.R.’s legacy.
J.R.’s life was storied and full. Born on October 15, 1934 in Cloutierville, LA to Joseph and Isabel Lemoine, J.R. was the fourth of six siblings. At the age of seven, his mother died and through a series of events, J.R. was taken in as the foster child of Tom and Ruby Hollis. The Hollises loved and cared for J.R. as their very own and he was their “Baby” as long as they lived. Under their care, J.R. graduated from Shelbyville High School as an all-around athlete—the quarterback that helped the Dragons make it to the Texas State Semi-Finals. From there, J.R. stepped into a role at Bruce Hardwood Floors where he would work and rise in authority over a 43-year career. In all that time, J.R. always made time to tinker, smoke a cigar, and show up to every event at which his children performed.
J.R. was a man of quiet strength and steady faith. He was capable with a tool, loyal in his devotion, and generous with his possessions.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 15 at Sardis Cemetery with Bro. Chuck Horton officiating. Visitation will be held from 12:00 -1:30 p.m. at Magnum Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be sent to Sardis Cemetery: 6034 FM 414; Center, TX 75935.
Survived by:
Wife: Virginia Lemoine
Sisters: Sally Wilson, Elizabeth Harris, and Donnie Moore
Children: Lisa Christian, Marty Lemoine, Tammy Lemoine, and Joey Lemoine
Grandchildren: Leslie Panaro, Crystal Kennon, Liza Firmin, Joseph Lemoine, Lindsey Thompson, Brooke Lane, Jade Cain, Jessica Phillips, Lauren Christian, Jeremiah Lemoine, Ashton Campbell, and Whitney Lemoine
14 Great-grandchildren
Preceded in death by:
Parents: Joseph and Isabel Lemoine; Tom and Ruby Hollis
Brothers and Sister: Joe Lemoine, Lee Lemoine, and Genevia Evans
Pallbearers: Joseph Lemoine, Jeremiah Lemoine, Wayne Christian, Rick Campbell, Mark Firmin, Brad Lane, and Lincoln Thompson
Honorary Pallbearer: Ashton Campbell, Mike Holcomb, Jimmy Smith, Dale Weaver
The family is being served by Mangum Funeral Home in Center, Texas. To send condolences or to sign an online register, please visit www.mangumfh.net
