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A funeral business that’s been around since the late 1800s has been passed to another generation.

Jim Broussard, former president of Broussard’s Mortuary, announced the successful 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.

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.  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,” Blue Broussard replied.

Jayme 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.  Jayme currently serves on the board at the Shorkey Center.  Jayme 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 graduated from Hamshire-Fannett High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business from Sam Houston State University.  He went on to graduate from Commonwealth Institute of Funeral Service-Houston.  Blue is the past president of the Southeast Texas Funeral Director’s Chapter and a past state president for the Texas Funeral Directors Association.  Blue currently serves on the board of the Beaumont Chamber of Commerce. He also 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.  Blue’s 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, Jayme and Blue, own and operate JBJ Real Estate Holdings and 1701 Barbecue.  Altogether, the companies employ close to 100 people across Southeast Texas.