Joseph Earl (“Joe”) Bergeron passed away among family on October 25, 2025, at the age of 98. A native and lifelong resident of Orange.
When God decided to create a Cajun, Joe is the person He had in mind. Joe loved his Cajun and Zydeco music, a good bowl of gumbo, and crawfish. He never met a stranger and always had a story ready to share in that strong French accent. He enjoyed crabbing, hunting, cars and dominoes. He loved his grandchildren and always looked forward to family gatherings where they could play with PawPaw Joe. Even in his 90’s, he refused to slow down and enjoyed every second of life. He loved his family and throughout his life did everything he could for them. It is said that a life well lived is measured by the love you give and the joy you bring to others. Indeed, Joe had a life well lived.
He was born on March 14, 1927, to Frank Bergeron, Sr. and Vivian Marie Bergeron. He served as a French translator in the United States Army during World War II. He married Myra Thomas, and the couple gave birth to two daughters, Darla and Brenda. After returning home from the service he worked as a boilermaker until his retirement. He was a member of the Orange VFW post where he was a past commander. He also was a member of the Orange American Legion post where previously served as sergeant at arms.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Myra Thomas Bergeron; his daughter, Brenda Bergeron Brimer; his parents, Frank Bergeron, Sr. and Vivian Marie Bergeron; sisters, Bernice Marie Blanchette, Hortense LeBlanc, Hazel Premeaux, and Artie Bonzall; and brothers, Dexter Bergeron, Claude Bergeron, Frank Bergeron, Edwin Bergeron, Lennis Bergeron, and Elafay Bergeron.
He is survived by his daughter, Darla Bertrand; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; brother, Clarence Bergeron; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange on November 1, 2025, with visitation at 1:00 p.m. and services at 2:00 p.m. He will be laid to rest in eternity next to his beloved Myra at Orange Forest Lawn Cemeter, Orange, Texas.