The Senate of the Legislature of Louisiana has adopted a resolution expressing heartfelt condolences on the passing of Joan Hatcher McCaskill, who died at the age of eighty-five on December 13, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on September 8, 1939, Joan was the daughter of Mary Amelia Devall and William Bass Hatcher, PhD, and grew up on the campus of Louisiana State University, where her father served as president. She graduated from Louisiana State University with degrees in French and dedicated many years to teaching at St. James Episcopal Day School, where she was affectionately known as "Madame Joan."

In addition to her teaching career, Joan was deeply involved in her community and church, serving in various leadership roles at St. James Episcopal Church and participating in numerous organizations, including the Baton Rouge Arts and Humanities Council and the Junior League of Baton Rouge. Joan is remembered for her love of friends, family, and the arts, leaving behind her daughter, Karen McCaskill Garland, and her grandchildren. The resolution concludes with a commitment to transmit a copy of the resolution to her family, honoring her legacy and contributions to the community.