Rita Jo Broussard

Rita Jo Broussard, of Lafayette, died Saturday, December 9, 2023. She was 81. Born in the small town of Leroy, Louisiana, on March 15, 1942, Rita Jo maintained a lifelong passion for her native Cajun culture. The Cajun French language, the food, the art, the stories, the sayings, the traditions, the music and the dancing — Rita Jo loved all of it. She was an active artist throughout her life, specializing in metal work that depicted various Louisiana customs. Her Zydeco rubboards, especially the patented female version, were played by several famous musicians and were always popular at festivals around the world, including during the many years she had a booth at the New Orleans Jazz Fest. Rita Jo befriended countless Louisiana musicians throughout her life and was a regular at Zydeco and Cajun concerts in the area. She shared that love of Louisiana culture and music with her son, Chad Kassem, now of Salina, Kansas, who went on to start a record label, recording studio and concert hall that featured many of the leading musicians from the Lafayette area. As a girl, Rita Jo attended boarding school at Academy of Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau. She then went on to the University of Southwestern Louisiana where she graduated with a degree in education and met her future husband, Chockey Kassem, who played and later coached football at the school. The couple were married for 10 years and had one child, Chad. Rita Jo taught elementary school and owned and operated a fine women’s clothing store, Elle Boutique, for a short period of time. She was an adventurer and lifelong learner who was very independent and loved to travel and explore. In addition to English and French, she became fluent in Spanish and lived on two separate occasions in different parts of Mexico. She also lived for several years in Florida before returning to her native Louisiana for the final years of her life. Even as the effects of Alzheimer's disease worsened, Rita Jo continued to find joy in music. Up until recently, she would still dance and play the rubboard at occasional live events and while listening to music in her home. Rita Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Mabel Broussard; her only sister, Jeanne Olive Broussard Streng; and granddaughter, Jade Kassem. She is survived by her son, Chad (Lydia) Kassem and granddaughter Jasmine Kassem, who she lovingly nicknamed “Pootie,” of Salina, Kansas. The family wants to thank special caretaker Emily Istre for her friendship and unwavering dedication over the past three years. Emily is like a younger version of Rita Jo and has the same passion for Louisiana culture and customs. Plans for a celebration of life will be announced later. Any friends who want information about this event may email ritajo@acousticsounds.com. Personal condolences may be sent to the Broussard family at: www.delhommefuneralhome.com Rita Jo Broussard and her family were cared for and entrusted final arrangements to Delhomme Funeral Home, 1011 Bertrand Drive, Lafayette, LA. Copyright Delhomme Funeral Homes, Inc. December 2023.

Rita Jo Broussard

March 15, 1942 - December 9, 2023