Jim Broussard, former president of Broussard’s Mortuary, announced the transfer of ownership to the fifth generation of the family, Jayme (Broussard) Toeppich and Blue Broussard III. Both have been associated with the company since completing their education, according to a press release.
The company was founded as A. Broussard Livery and undertaking in 1889 by Alexander Broussard. Dale Broussard led the company from 1918 until his death in 1970. Alex and James Broussard, its third generation, operated the company through the mid-90’s, when ownership was assumed by the fourth generation, Jim and Tom Broussard. Both Jim and his cousin, Tom, served the families of Southeast Texas until Tom’s death in 2019.
“I am very fortunate that my children recognize the importance of what we do,” said Jim Broussard “Customer service is all we know. Blue and I feel a tremendous responsibility to preserve our company’s values. We are excited for the future of Southeast Texas, and we look forward to bringing new offerings and concepts that are void in our market,” said Jayme Toeppich.
Both Jayme and Blue grew up in the business and credit their dedicated employees to the company’s success.
According to the new owners, their team consist of truly passionate individuals who treat others the way they would want to be treated and who value helping and serving their community. They understand the commitment and tenacity required to execute the highest level of customer service.
“Growing up in our family business, my grandfather and my dad taught me everything I know about customer service, business ethics, and just simply how to treat people. That includes the people we serve and our team. It’s something I always base my decision making on, and I will carry on those same guiding principles as we continue to diversify our service offerings,” said Blue Broussard
Toeppich graduated Hamshire-Fannett High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resources Development from Texas A&M University. In 2016, she completed a Graduate Certificate in Leadership from Rice University. She currently serves on the board at the Shorkey Center.
Toeppich represents the fifth generation to operate Broussard’s, serving as co-owner and the company’s chief executive officer. Her family includes husband Steven, daughter Margaret, and son Merrill.
Blue Broussard III also graduated from Hamshire-Fannett High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business from Sam Houston State University.
Broussard went on to graduate from Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service-Houston.
He is the past president of the Southeast Texas Funeral Director’s Chapter and a past state president for the Texas Funeral Directors Association.
He currently serves on the board of the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce and represents the fifth generation to operate his family’s business, having served as a funeral director, manager and now co-owner and the company’s chief service officer.
His family includes his wife Rachel, along with daughter, Emma, and son, Blue.
Currently, Broussard’s serves the area with two locations in Beaumont, as well as one each in Nederland, Silsbee, Kountze and Winne, along with Broussard’s crematorium, Hardin Memorial Park Cemetery and Broussard’s print shop.
In addition to Broussard’s, the siblings also own and operate JBJ Real Estate Holdings and 1701 Barbecue. Altogether, the companies employ close to 100 people across Southeast Texas.
