Tommie Jean McLemore Castille

Breaux Bridge - A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, May 02, 2026, at Teche Baptist Church for Tommie Jean McLemore Castille, 89, who passed away on April 29, 2026, at Landmark of Acadiana Nursing Home. 

She lived a remarkable life marked by devotion to her family, a deep commitment to her community, and a pioneering spirit within the world of doll making.

A visitation will take place at Teche Baptist Church on Saturday from 12:00 PM until service time.

Pastor Joe Jenkins will officiate at the funeral service. Burial will follow at St. Bernard Cemetery No. 2. 

Tommie treasured the time spent with her loved ones, especially her husband of 56 years, Jerry. Together, they raised three children, who along with their nine grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren, were the center of her heart. Gathering with family in her hometown of Gilbert, Louisiana at the family home brought her great happiness, especially during holidays when these celebrations were a cherished tradition shared across generations.

A dedicated and faithful member of Teche Baptist Church in Breaux Bridge, Tommie was a founding member whose involvement significantly enriched the church community. Her faith and fellowship were important aspects of her life, evident in the way she gave her time and talents.

Tommie's passion for creativity found expression through her love of sewing and crafting, often creating treasured items for her family. This artistic spirit extended into a prolific doll making career spanning over four decades. As the owner and operator of Dolls N Things, she not only crafted exquisite dolls but also shared her knowledge with many students, inspiring a new generation of doll makers. Her work created lasting bonds with numerous "doll lady" friends, relationships she deeply valued.

Her influence in the doll making community was profound. As a founding member of the doll club "La Jolette Poupet de Acadiana" (Pretty Little Dolls of Acadiana), and one of the original doll makers collaborating with Mildred Seeley-the founder of the Doll Making Guild-Tommie was at the forefront of her art. She traveled extensively throughout the United States and abroad, teaching and promoting the craft. Her participation in many doll conventions exemplified her dedication and camaraderie among fellow artists. Recognized as a pioneer in the field, she was honored with an honorary Doctor of Dollmaking medal, a testament to her significant contributions.

Among her notable achievements was co-commissioning the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition Doll "Yvette," alongside Mrs. Lois Breaux, a symbol of her lasting impact on the doll industry and cultural heritage.

Tommie Castille's legacy is one of love, creativity, and pioneering leadership. She leaves behind a rich tapestry of family, friends, and admirers who will continue to be inspired by her example. Her memory will remain vividly alive in the hearts of those who knew her and in the art she so passionately nurtured.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry Castille, Sr.; children, David Turner, Sr. (Deborah), Kimberly Frederick (Lyness, Jr.) and Jerry F. Castille, Jr.; sisters, Florence M. Magee and Gail M. McMillon; grandchildren, Rachel Chautin (Brady), Ross Frederick (Shelly), David Turner, Jr. (Magen), Josh Frederick (Brooke), Justin Turner (Emily), Jessica Frederick, Trystian Castille, Michaela Castille and Abbiegail Castille; and 20 great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Ruth Turner McLemore; and her siblings, Richard McLemore, Arie Stephens, Amanda Seffens, and Martha M. McGloflin. 

Pallbearers will be David Turner, Sr., Jerry F. Castille, Jr., Lyness Frederick, Jr., Ross Frederick, David Turner, Jr., and Trystian Castille. 

Pellerin Funeral Home (337-332-2111) is in charge of arrangements.