Obituary: James “Kearney” Leger – USL graduate with a passion for Ragin’ Cajun Athletics

James Kearney Leger, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and respected businessman, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2024, at the age of 87. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in his honor on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Lafayette, Louisiana. Reverend Mario Romero, Pastor of Holy Cross Catholic Church, will preside over the ceremony. Following the Mass, James will be laid to rest at Lafayette Memorial Park Cemetery.

James, affectionately known as Kearney, was a lifelong resident of Lafayette. He served proudly in the United States Navy Reserves for eight years, demonstrating his dedication to his country. He attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana (USL), where he developed a passion for Ragin Cajun athletics that remained with him throughout his life.

Kearney’s career in the sporting goods industry began at Bell’s Sporting Goods, where he first learned the trade. He later became a sales representative for AMF Voit Rubber Company and Rawlings Sports. In 1975, he joined Western Athletic Sales as a salesman and quickly advanced to become the Owner and President. Under his leadership, the company relocated to Lafayette in 1979 and was rebranded as Sunbelt Sports, Inc. Over the next 36 years, Sunbelt Sports grew into an industry leader, achieving over $40 million in sales before closing in 2015 due to technological advancements in the business.

Beyond his professional achievements, Kearney was deeply committed to his family and community. He served as a father figure and mentor to many, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him. One of his proudest accomplishments was ensuring that his sons and grandchildren received a high-quality education at Episcopal School of Acadiana, a legacy he cherished deeply.

Kearney was the son of the late Elliot Joseph Leger and Lucy Benoit Leger. He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Carolyn Barrilleaux Leger; his two sons, James Elliott Leger and Robert Paul Leger; and his three grandchildren, Piper, Parker, and Paxton Leger. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mildred Ann Leger.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Delhomme Funeral Home – Bertrand on Thursday, January 2, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m. Visiting hours will continue on Friday, January 3, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

Pallbearers honored to carry Kearney to his final resting place include Parker Leger, Paxton Leger, Patrick Daniels, Judge Charlie Fitzgerald, Bob Sturgeon, and Dr. Scott Willoughby. Honorary pallbearers include Thomas Willoughby, William Stubbs, Steve Ripley, and Fred Hobbs.

The family welcomes personal condolences, which may be shared at: www.delhommefuneralhome.com. Final arrangements for James Kearney Leger have been entrusted to Delhomme Funeral Home, 1011 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette, LA.

James Kearney Leger’s legacy of love, leadership, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.