Lynette V. Harelson

Lynette V. Harelson, a cherished matriarch and beloved community member, passed away peacefully of natural causes on September 11, 2025, in her birthplace of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Born on February 20, 1937, to Florence and Wallace Voorhies, Lynette's life was a testament to the enduring power of love and the strength of family ties. Lynette was a graduate of St. Joseph's Academy, Class of 1955. 

Lynette's Catholic faith guided her every step, imbuing her with a grace that touched everyone she met. Together with her beloved husband of 65 years, Carol, and their dear friend Ronnie Bullion, Lynette co-built and operated University Cinema at the gates of LSU. The cinema was more than a business; it was a gathering place for the community, where Lynette's loving smile and gracious personality became as much a staple as the films themselves. 

Her warmth and generosity of spirit transformed a simple movie-going experience into a cherished memory for countless patrons. Lynette's life was rich with love and laughter, shared with her devoted family and a wide circle of friends. 

Though predeceased by her husband Carol, her parents, in-laws, son-in-law Artie Zimmerman, and brother-in-law Luther Payer, Lynette's legacy lives on through her children Rhonda Zimmerman, Diana Tullos and her husband Craig, and her son John. She was the proud grandmother of Alex Madison and her husband Jake, and she cherished her role as a sister to Joyce Payer. Lynette is also survived by her nephews Ricky, Rocky and Rob Payer and their families. Her life was also marked by enduring friendships, which she cultivated with great care. Lynette will be fondly remembered by her dear friends Ronnie Bullion, Dorothy Cannon, Jewel Doran, Helen Cooper, Pat Demers, BeBee Reynolds, Ruby Tujague, Mary Alice Fournet and their loving families. Each friendship was a treasure to Lynette, and she nurtured these relationships with the same love and attention she gave to her family. 

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Church at 11:00 am, Tuesday, September 16th. The family will begin receiving guests at 10:00 am. A reception at The Lake House, 12323 Old Hammond Hwy. will take place immediately after the mass. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to St. Thomas More Catholic Church or the charity of your choice. 

Arrangements by Church Funeral Services Baton Rouge 225-644-9683 www.churchfuneralservices.com