Obituary

Geraldine Stringfield Leblanc

January 15, 1925 - June 16, 2025

With a heart full of grace and a life full of sparkle, our cherished matriarch Geraldine Stringfield LeBlanc stepped into the arms of Jesus on June 16, 2025. She was 100 years young and 100% unforgettable.

Born January 15, 1925, she was preceded in eternal joy by her beloved husband, Andrew “Andy” LeBlanc; her devoted parents, Noel and Inez Stringfield; her siblings Avis, Clifton, and Larry Stringfield; and her daughter-in-law Betty Duncan LeBlanc.

Geri, known to family as Emmy, leaves behind a legacy of deep faith, spunky spirit, and family who adored her. Survived by her sons, Drew LeBlanc (Rachel) and Randy LeBlanc (Cele), she was the proud grandmother of Aundrea LeBlanc, Niki Poole (Scott), Jennifer LeBlanc, Jason LeBlanc (Amy), Jonathan LeBlanc (Lizzie), Michael Thomas (Stephanie), and Aaron Thomas (Paula). Her love also extended to 17 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren.

Emmy had two great passions in life: her unshakeable relationship with Jesus and her 30+ years of dedication to Southern Timber through Crown Zellerbach. Whether at her desk or in the pew, she gave her very best. She faithfully served at Calvary Baptist Church for many years and later at Barcelona Road Baptist Church in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.

One of her favorite roles was being the unofficial tour manager for her sons’ music ministries. She would line up “gigs” for them to sing—especially during Christmas visits home. While her pride and the performances were heartfelt, the pay was always pro bono, of course.

Emmy was also a dedicated and proud member of the aquatic exercise group, the “Turtles” for over 3 decades. She would voluntarily be the first to tell you (and she would tell you) that cooking was not her calling. But she was always quick with a laugh, a strong opinion, and a loyal heart. With her, you never had to wonder what she was thinking—she’d save you the trouble and just say it aloud.

In her later years, she made her home at The Claiborne of Hattiesburg, where she experienced independent living, assisted living, and eventually memory care. The Claiborne hosted her centennial birthday bash in January—complete with guests from Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia, Illinois, and Alabama. While she refused to wear the outfit chosen for her party, she was finally convinced to at least attend the party! The candles on her cake lit up the room, but the real glow came from the love that surrounded her. 

To know her was to love her. She was witty, loyal, spirited, and unapologetically herself. She was grateful for her family and the lifelong friendships she nurtured.

Today, we find comfort in knowing she is healed, whole, and walking—more likely dancing—with Jesus. What a reunion that must be!

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Geri LeBlanc, age 100 and of Hattiesburg, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on June 16, 2025. Born January 15, 1925, she was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew “Andy” LeBlanc; parents, Noel and Inez Stringfield; siblings Avis, Clifton, and Larry Stringfield; and daughter-in-law, Betty Duncan LeBlanc.

Affectionately known as “Emmy,” she is survived by sons Drew LeBlanc (Rachel) and Randy LeBlanc (Cele); grandchildren Aundrea LeBlanc, Niki Poole (Scott), Jennifer LeBlanc, Jason LeBlanc (Amy), Jonathan LeBlanc (Lizzie), Michael Thomas (Stephanie), and Aaron Thomas (Paula); 17 great-grandchildren and 13 great-great-grandchildren.

Geri had two passions: her faith in Christ and her 30+ year career with Southern Timber. She served at Calvary Baptist Church and Barcelona Road Baptist Church. 

She was known for her quick wit, strong opinions, and deep love for her family.  We rejoice knowing she is resting at the feet of Jesus. 

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Funeral services will be held at Poole Ritchie Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 11:00 am. Burial will follow in Ponemah Cemetery. Visitation will be 9:00 am until services, Wednesday, at the funeral home.