Ever wonder about the woman who stood beside a music legend for nearly half a century? Joel Roux Neville, the first wife of Aaron Neville, wasn't just a partner; she was a cornerstone, a survivor, and the matriarch of a family deeply intertwined with the vibrant culture of New Orleans. This is her story.

Joel Frances Roux Neville, born on May 28, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana, lived a life marked by both joy and profound hardship. Her journey alongside Aaron Neville began in their teenage years, a love story that blossomed into a marriage on January 10, 1959. Both just 18, they embarked on a life together that would span decades, weathering storms both literal and figurative. She was the daughter of Taylor and the late John Roux, Sr.

Category	Information
Full Name	Joel Frances Roux Neville
Birth Date	May 28, 1940
Birth Place	New Orleans, Orleans Parish, Louisiana, USA
Death Date	January 5, 2007
Death Place	Brentwood, Davidson County, Tennessee, USA
Age at Death	66 years old
Spouse	Aaron Neville (married January 10, 1959)
Children	Ernestine Neville, Aaron Neville Jr., Ivan Neville, Jason Neville
Known For	Being the first wife of singer Aaron Neville
Occupation	Details vague; some sources suggest work at Charity Hospital and her mother at Housing Authority
Cause of Death	Cancer
Find a Grave Memorial	Link to Memorial

Theirs was a bond forged in youthful passion, leading to a family that eventually included four children: Ernestine, Aaron Jr., and musicians Ivan and Jason Neville. Joel stood as a constant presence in their lives, navigating the challenges of raising a family while Aaron pursued his musical career. She was a devoted mother, supporting her children's aspirations and nurturing their talents.

However, life dealt them significant blows. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina ravaged New Orleans, claiming their home and forcing them to confront the devastation alongside countless others. This displacement added another layer of difficulty to their already complex lives. Joel, along with Aaron and their family, had to grapple with the loss of their familiar surroundings and the uncertainty of the future.

Tragically, the storm wasn't the only hardship they faced. Joel battled cancer for nearly three years, demonstrating immense strength and resilience in the face of the disease. Despite the physical and emotional toll, she persevered, sustained by her faith and the love of her family. Aaron, in turn, stood by her side, offering unwavering support throughout her illness.

Joel Roux Neville ultimately succumbed to cancer on January 5, 2007, in Nashville, Tennessee. She was 66 years old. Her passing marked the end of a significant chapter in Aaron Neville's life, leaving him to grapple with profound grief and depression. Their marriage, which had lasted for 47 years, was a testament to their enduring commitment and love. The news of her death resonated within the New Orleans community, where she was remembered for her warmth, kindness, and resilience. Many who knew her expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to both the Roux and Neville families.

Beyond her role as Aaron Neville's wife, Joel was a woman with her own identity and experiences. Some remember her for her work at Charity Hospital, while others recall her mother's service at the Housing Authority. These connections highlight her involvement in the New Orleans community and her dedication to serving others.

While information about her individual pursuits remains somewhat limited, the impact she had on her family and those around her is undeniable. She provided a stable and loving home for her children, nurturing their talents and supporting their dreams. Her influence is evident in the successes of her sons, Ivan and Jason, who have both made significant contributions to the music world.

The loss of Joel was deeply felt by her family, including her six grandchildren. She left behind a legacy of love, strength, and resilience that continues to inspire those who knew her. Her memory is cherished by her children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives she touched.

Aaron Neville's journey through grief and healing is a testament to the profound impact Joel had on his life. The loss of his lifelong partner left a void that could never be truly filled. He has spoken openly about the challenges he faced in the aftermath of her death, highlighting the importance of faith, family, and music in his healing process.

In 2008, a year after Joel's passing, Aaron met photographer Sarah Ann Friedman during a People magazine photo shoot. This encounter marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life, eventually leading to marriage. While Sarah played an important role in his later years, Joel Roux Neville remained a significant figure in Aaron's life story, forever remembered as his first love and the mother of his children.

Aaron Neville, born on January 24, 1941, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is renowned for his distinctive voice and soulful performances. His musical career has spanned decades, earning him numerous awards and accolades. His signature song, "Tell It Like It Is," became a major hit and solidified his place in music history. He is also known for his interpretations of classic songs like "Nature Boy."

Aaron's musical journey is intertwined with his personal experiences, including his struggles with addiction and his encounters with law enforcement. His autobiography, "Tell It Like It Is," offers a candid account of his life, revealing both the triumphs and the challenges he has faced. The book also sheds light on the important role St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has played in his life.

The Neville family has made significant contributions to the music scene in New Orleans and beyond. The Neville Brothers, which included Aaron and his brothers Art, Charles, and Cyril, were a highly influential band known for their blend of funk, R&B, and soul. Their music reflected the rich cultural heritage of their city and resonated with audiences around the world.

Aaron Neville's second marriage to Sarah Ann Friedman brought him renewed happiness and companionship. Sarah, who served as an anchor during the early stages of their relationship and helped through personal struggles, married from 1959 until her death in 2007. She became a catalyst for change and artistic collaboration in his life. While Joel Roux Neville may no longer be physically present, her memory lives on in the hearts of her family and friends. Her story is a reminder of the enduring power of love, the importance of resilience in the face of adversity, and the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others.

The void left by Joel's passing was deeply felt by those who knew her, a testament to her warm spirit and the love she shared with many. She remains a cherished figure in the memories of her loved ones.

Beyond her immediate family, Joel was also the aunt of journalist Arthel Neville, further extending her influence within the broader community. The Neville family's contributions to music and media underscore their deep roots in New Orleans culture.

Joel Roux Neville's life, though marked by hardship, was ultimately a testament to her strength, love, and unwavering commitment to her family. She was a woman who weathered storms, both literal and figurative, and emerged with grace and resilience. Her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her, reminding them of the enduring power of love and the importance of cherishing the bonds that connect us.

Her story, often overshadowed by the fame of her husband, deserves to be told and remembered. Joel Roux Neville was more than just the wife of a music legend; she was a woman of substance, strength, and unwavering love.

The legacy of Joel Roux Neville lives on through her children, her grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched during her time on this earth. She was a true New Orleans woman, embodying the spirit of resilience, warmth, and love that defines the city she called home.

While Aaron Neville has continued his musical journey and found happiness in his second marriage, the memory of Joel Roux Neville remains a cherished part of his life story. She was his first love, the mother of his children, and a constant source of strength and support during their many years together.

The details surrounding Joel Roux's dating history and relationships prior to her marriage to Aaron Neville remain largely private. Her life was primarily defined by her long and devoted marriage to the singer.

The community that surrounded Joel Roux Neville played a significant role in her life, providing support and companionship throughout her journey. The bonds she forged with friends, neighbors, and colleagues at places like Charity Hospital and the Housing Authority served as a source of strength and resilience during challenging times.

The mention of St. Jude in connection to Aaron Neville's life, as highlighted in his memoir, underscores the importance of faith and hope in overcoming adversity. Joel Roux Neville shared this faith, drawing strength from her spiritual beliefs throughout her life, particularly during her battle with cancer.

The impact of Hurricane Katrina on Joel Roux Neville's life cannot be overstated. The loss of her home and the displacement it caused added significant stress to her already challenging situation. Her ability to persevere through this crisis is a testament to her inner strength and resilience.

Joel Roux Neville's contributions to her family extended beyond her role as a mother. She also served as a caregiver, a confidante, and a source of unwavering support for her husband and children. Her presence created a stable and loving home environment that allowed them to thrive.

The outpouring of sympathy and condolences that followed Joel Roux Neville's passing speaks volumes about the impact she had on those around her. People from all walks of life expressed their grief and offered their support to the Neville and Roux families.

The life of Joel Roux Neville is a reminder that even in the face of hardship, it is possible to find joy, love, and meaning. She lived a beautiful life, leaving behind a legacy of strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her family. Her story will continue to inspire those who knew her and serve as a reminder of the enduring power of love.

The absence of readily available information about Joel Roux Neville's personal accomplishments and interests outside of her family life underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women who have often been overlooked in historical narratives. Their stories, though less visible, are no less important.

The enduring love between Joel Roux Neville and Aaron Neville is a testament to the power of commitment and the ability of two people to weather the storms of life together. Their 47-year marriage serves as an inspiration to many.

Joel Roux Neville's memory lives on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and all those who were fortunate enough to know her. She was a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on the world.

The story of Joel Roux Neville is a reminder that even in the midst of fame and success, it is the bonds of family and love that truly matter. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who cherished her relationships above all else.

Joel Roux Neville's legacy will continue to inspire and uplift those who learn about her life and her unwavering commitment to her family. She was a true example of strength, resilience, and love.

The impact of Joel Roux Neville's presence in the lives of her children, Ernestine, Aaron Jr., Ivan, and Jason, is immeasurable. She provided them with a foundation of love, support, and guidance that helped them to achieve their own successes.

The memories of Joel Roux Neville will forever be cherished by her family and friends, serving as a reminder of the beautiful life she lived and the enduring love she shared.

The story of Joel Roux Neville is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Her life, though not without its challenges, was ultimately a triumph of love, family, and faith.