James LaCour Obituary

James Clinton LaCour, Sr. was the eldest child, born to Clem (deceased) and Madeline Sampson LaCour on September 30, 1957, at St. Francis Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria, Louisiana.
At just one month old, James was baptized at St. James Memorial Catholic Church in Alexandria, Louisiana. He later served his church parish faithfully as an altar server throughout elementary and high school. James was affectionately known by his family and community as "Jimmy."
Jimmy attended St. James Catholic School until its closure, after which he transferred to Holy Savior Menard High School in the ninth grade. He played extracurricular sports-football and basketball-until he underwent emergency surgery that required a long recovery and approved extended absence from school. After this challenging period, he returned and proudly earned his high school diploma.
Upon graduating in 1976, Jimmy scored exceptionally high on the ASVAB, surpassing the requirements for every branch of the U.S. military-including the highly selective Coast Guard. He ultimately enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served honorably. During his dedicated service, James served in a variety of key roles, consistently delivering exceptional performance and ultimately earning the rank of Staff Sergeant. His military duties took him across the world. On one of his early assignments in the Philippines, he met Susan Balela. The two fell in love, married, and were blessed with three beautiful sons.
James's military service took him to many countries around the world-experiences he deeply valued and cherished. During his military career, the family lived in several locations, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Okinawa (Japan), and ultimately Hawaii, where James completed his final duty station and retired after 20 years and 8 months of honorable service. His military specialties included Bulk Fuel Operations and Traffic Management, and he was highly respected for his work in Transportation, Fuel, and Petroleum services.
He enjoyed watching the New Orleans Saints, playing dominos, and talking to family and friends, especially when he was feeling well enough to pick up the phone.
However, if he wasn't in the mood to talk, he'd ignore your calls-except for his "big sister" Sheila, even though she was the middle child. Sheila often found herself with assignments from Jimmy that he insisted only she could handle.
When it was time to share the family news, vent, or argue about sports, it was time to call " baby sis" Angie, who he affectionately called "Tut."
James took great pride in his sons and was their biggest supporter. He loved speaking about their achievements to anyone who would listen and thanked God daily for watching over them and guiding their steps.
James was known as a hard-working, good-hearted man who was deeply loved and respected by his family, friends, co-workers, and subordinates. He was also an exceptional cook-famous for his beef brisket and barbecue. He cooked with passion until his health no longer allowed him to stand for extended periods.
James passed away suddenly on July 5, 2025-on the morning of his mother's birthday. It was a tremendous shock to the family, but we trust that it happened according to God's perfect plan, allowing him to depart peacefully following a joyful family celebration the night before. We say: "Thank You, Lord. Your will has been done." May God welcome him into paradise, and may Christ accompany him to the throne of our gracious God. Amen.
James was preceded in death by his father, Clem LaCour, Jr. and two infant brothers: Clemons and David LaCour.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory:
His loving mother: Madeline Sampson LaCour.
His three sons: James Clinton LaCour, Jr. (Miruzzel) of Pensacola, FL; Christopher LaCour (Susan) of Covington, WA; and Brandon LaCour of Kailua, HI.
One stepdaughter: Ren Balela Burns (Dillion) of Austin, TX.
Five grandchildren: James S. LaCour, Jamir LaCour, and Jace LaCour (all of Pensacola); Priscilla LaCour and Jacob Barlow of Kent, WA.
Two sisters: Sheila McDaniel (Bruce) of Alexandria, LA, and Angela Smith (Brian) of Land O' Lakes, FL.
Aunts: Rose Marie Sampson of Mansura, LA; Clarinda Sampson and Joyce Sampson of Las Vegas, NV.
His beloved life partner: Ms. Shelia Early of Alexandria, LA.
He is also survived by a host of cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends-all of whom considered themselves his "favorites."
Special thanks to:
Mr. Michael Norwood – lifelong friend since high school.
Cousins who always supported him: Mark Sampson, Jerry Sarpy, and David Metoyer.
Phone supporters and pals: Tee Dupas, Elaine Barton, Patricia Barton, Lawrence Dupas, and Ewell Page, Jr.