James Edward Royal, Sr.

1945 - 2024

James Edward Royal, Sr. loved celebrating life daily with family and friends.  The only things he loved more were his nickname and persona, "Bunny," the casino, a ball game, a cold Miller Lite, and late-night cake and ice cream.  Bunny was born in New Orleans, LA, on August 15, 1945, and was a lifelong resident and, in many ways, the ambassador for St. Rose, LA.  Those who knew him knew that in his presence, there would always be strong opinions, orthodox or not, a loud voice, a good meal, and a cold drink, no matter the type. On November 20, 2024, at the age of 79, his purpose on Earth was fulfilled.  Those who knew and loved him will find solace in their happy memories.  We are confident heaven just got a little livelier. 

Bunny, the eldest child of Audrey V. Eugene née Vinnett and Titus Royal, was married to Sandra Royal for 34 years.  Over the decades, they jointly loved and supported their children: James (Jamie) Royal, Jr., Lynn (Hurk) Royal, John (Black Jonie) Royal, Tonya Scott Savage (Cedric), Trenee Royal, and Tommy Scott, III; grandchildren: Ashley Baptiste, Tianna Royal, James Royal III, Jane Monique Garcia, Jacob Royal, Jamesha Harris, Jordan Savage, and Kailey Savage; great-grandchildren, Chloe Blatcher, Pierre Blatcher, Jr., Aubree Jones, Derek Jones, Zane Riggins, Loyal Richard, and Lyla Richard.  Bunny also leaves to cherish his memory: his mother and siblings Lionel Royal (Geraldine), Joana Rogers (Robert), and Connie Carter (Eddie).  He was predeceased by his father, Titus Royal, son Daryl (Red) Royal, sister, Joyce Harris, and brother, Ronald Wicks.

Relatives and friends of the family, Pastors, Officers and Members of Mt. Zion Baptist Church and all neighboring churches are invited to attend the funeral services at 10:00am on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 100 2nd Street, St. Rose, LA 70087.  Visitation 9:00am until the time of funeral at the above-named church. The interment will ensue at Jefferson Memorial Gardens, 11316 River Rd, St. Rose, LA 70087. Floral arrangements may be sent to Mt. Zion Baptist Church.  Donations for the cancer research may be sent to the Center for Black Health & Equity  Support - The Center for Black Health & Equity in the name of James Royal, Sr.  https://centerforblackhealth.org/support/.  Final Arrangements Entrusted to Patrick H. Sanders Funeral Home & Funeral Directors, LLC. 605 Main Street, Laplace, LA 70068. 985-359-1919.  “Providing Care & Comfort is Our Highest Mission.”