Joyce LaVerne Reid Bowles

Joyce LaVerne Reid Bowles, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at the age of 95. She was born on July 30, 1931, in Uneedus, Louisiana, the daughter of the late Howard Wallace Reid and Aline Toney Reid. LaVerne will be remembered as a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose life was marked by devotion to others. She was also known as the biggest baseball fan, a joy that added energy and enthusiasm to the many moments she shared with family and friends.

For many years, LaVerne served in the Hammond School system as a paraprofessional. In that role, she made a meaningful difference in the lives of students, offering support and encouragement each day. LaVerne was also the school secretary for many of the schools.

Her commitment to helping others continued through her volunteer work at North Oaks Medical Center, where she gave 26 years of faithful service. There, she became a dependable go-to person and was widely known as the unofficial volunteer in charge. Her dedication, reliability, and willingness to step in wherever needed made her deeply valued by those around her. She will be remembered with deep affection by all who had the privilege of knowing her, and her memory will continue to live on in the many lives she touched.

LaVerne is survived by her children, Jerry Bowles (Becky), Janet Davis, Judy Bowles, Joyce Bowles; grandchildren, Jennifer Buccola (Kevin), Justin Bowles (JoAnna), Laura Brown (Harrison), and Joshua Devaney; great grandchildren, Kamryn Bowles, Dalton Bowles, and Lucy Brown; sister, Lorraine Carlton (Donald); sister-in-law, Margaret Reid; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, LaVerne was preceded in death by her husband, Edward David "Eddie" Bowles; son, George Bowles; granddaughter, Sunny Davis; brother, Talmadge Reid; and son-in-law, Son Davis.

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 2000 N. Morrison Blvd, Hammond, Louisiana 70401 on Saturday, September 26, 2026 from 10:00 am until the Funeral Service begins at 1:00 pm.

Interment will follow at Holly Gardens Cemetery in Hammond, Louisiana.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula. An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.