Joy Catherine Prather

Joy Catherine Prather ("Cat" or "Cathy") departed from her earthly body and ascended on June 14, 2024, at age 79, peacefully at home with her daughter by her side in Baton Rouge, the same city in which she was born on October 5, 1944. She leaves behind a legacy of joy (her dad chose that word for her first name because he was filled with joy when she was born), compassion, dedication, and service, reflected in both her professional and personal life.

 Her educational journey began at Sacred Heart, continued at St. Joseph's Academy, and culminated at Southeastern University. Her professions were diverse and impactful, including significant roles at Fidelity Bank, Children's Hospital in both Houston and Tulsa (as well as childcare on and off later in life), and many years as a dental office manager, bookkeeper, and assistant to several local dentists such as Drs. Jim Bob Ourso and Blake Messina.

 She was a devout member of the Catholic religion throughout her life, even going so far as entering the convent straight out of high school. It didn't work out, obviously, but she said the rosary every single day and found hope, solace, and peace in her spiritual faith.

 Other interests which extended beyond her professional and religious life include being a big fan of Elvis Presley, an avid enthusiast of true crime, crime and medical dramas, and having a keen interest in law and psychology.

 She is survived by her only child, Catherine Elizabeth Crossman, and preceded in death by her parents, Llewellyn & Emily Fryou (Jolissaint), brothers, Llew & Roland Fryou, and sister, Ann Barrett (Fryou).

 All are welcome to attend a Memorial Mass held in her honor at St. George Chapel on Friday, June 28th at 11am.

 Special thanks to Elise Gauthier Fryou and Mark Fryou (wife and son of Roland) for being there as support throughout her life, especially at the end as comfort.

 In addition, to Jim Bob and Martha Ourso, for playing a pivotal supportive role years ago. Your generosity will always be remembered.

 She will be laid to rest with her parents at Greenoaks Memorial Park in Baton Rouge.

 Her life can be marked by her compassionate and loving spirit towards any stranger she met. She was born with an innate sense and desire to care for anyone around her, which can be seen in the work she chose and her unwavering dedication towards being a mother, so it's fitting that this same dedication be given back to her in the end with these loving words:

 Mom, you always told me I am the greatest blessing in your life, and you were always there for me. I like to think you still are. Your memory will live on in me and anyone who knows you or listens to me talk about you. You beat cancer once seamlessly when I was 12 and told everyone you have to continue to live for me, and you did for another 26 years. You always said you were so proud of me, and I will continue to make you proud. It's your time now to rest in peace. I will always love you, to the end of the universe and back. Love, Elizabeth.