Obituaries

Juanita Byles Leone of Union, KY, formerly from Zwolle, LA, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2026, at the age of 86. Juanita was born in Robeline, LA, on April 16, 1939 to Robert S. Byles and Ann Murray Byles of Many, LA.

Juanita was a graduate of Many High School, Class of ‘58. She married Kenneth Earle Leone, Sr. on March 1, 1961, and was married 30 years, until Kenneth’s passing on July 5, 1991.

Juanita attended beauty school in Lake Charles, LA, where she earned her degree as a beautician. She opened her own beauty shop and was a successful beautician for over 12 years before having to change careers. She worked until retirement as a bookkeeper.

Juanita loved working in her yard. Her friends and neighbors loved seeing all the beautiful flowerbeds over the years. Juanita moved to Union, KY, to be near her daughter. There she was so glad to see The Ark and the Creation Museum. She enjoyed time with friends she met at the Senior Center playing Bingo.

Juanita is preceded in death by her parents Robert Simion Byles and Ann Murray Byles; her husband Kenneth Earle Leone Sr.; brothers Robert Valmore Byles Sr. and Clauriste Hugh Byles Sr.; and infant sister Elizabeth Ann Byles.She is survived by son Kenneth Earle Leone, Jr., daughter Debra Rene’ Leone Richardson, and son Marcus Blaine Leone. She was blessed with several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

Juanita’s wishes is that in lieu of flowers, any donations in her memory be sent to: Shriners’s Hospital in Shreveport LA; Hope Ministries of Northern KY7110 Dixie HWY Florence, KY 41042; or Charity of choice.

A graveside memorial will be scheduled at a later date in Zwolle, LA.