Loretta Kay Chenevert Esmond, 94, was born on January 1, 1932, in Louisiana and grew up in New Roads and Alexandria. She graduated in 1950 from Providence High School, an all-girls Catholic school. She married her high school sweetheart, Howard “Buck” Esmond, and moved to Port Arthur in 1952. In October 1957, they settled in Nederland, Texas, where they raised their five children and a pasture full of various livestock.
Loretta is survived by her children, Denise Humphrey, Gina Richmond, Lisa Smith and husband, Charlie Smith, Kirk Esmond and husband, Jimmy Fowler, and Keith Esmond. She was blessed with six grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
When her children were young, Loretta was a devoted homemaker, homeroom mother, and enthusiastic supporter of their school, church, and athletic activities. Her family was always the center of her life.
A faithful member of St. Charles Catholic Church for 69 years, Loretta dedicated countless hours of service to her parish and community. She was a member of the Altar Society and served for many years as its treasurer. She also served on the Parish Council and was a member of the Golden Circle, visiting local nursing homes and bringing Mass, friendship, and comfort to residents for more than 40 years. Loretta was one of the founding members of Always Our Children and was active in Our Helping Hands. She also volunteered as a member of the Auxiliary at Mid-Jefferson County Hospital.
Loretta enjoyed spending time with her lifelong friends, playing cards, watching movies, sharing coffee, and gathering with those she loved. She received the Benediction of Love Award and Altar Society Appreciation recognition for more than 40 years of dedicated service.
After losing her beloved husband, Buck, Loretta continued to maintain her home and yard independently for many years. Home and family were her greatest joys. She loved welcoming family and friends for a visit and was always eager to share conversation, laughter, and her delicious baked goods.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at Melancon~Levingston Funeral Home, 1605 Avenue H, Nederland, Texas. A Rosary will be recited at 4:30 p.m., followed by visitation from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 211 Hardy Avenue, Nederland, Texas, followed by interment at Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 3098 Highway 69, Nederland, Texas.
Family and friends are invited to gather for lunch following the graveside service at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 2313 Nederland Avenue, Port Neches, Texas.
Loretta’s unwavering faith, generous spirit, and devotion to her family, church, and community will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
