Alvin “Al” Francis Daubert, on May 9, 2020, passed away peacefully of natural causes at his home in Bayou Liberty, Slidell, LA at the age of 80. He was born to Laura Catherine Inch and Francis Adolph Daubert on August 8, 1939, in New Orleans. Al was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 47 years, Deanna Pichon Daubert, brothers Earl Alberts, Milton, Merlin, and George Kaupp. He leaves behind his son Glenn Daubert (Lori), daughters Lisa D. Geeck (Tony) and Terri D. Kaupp (Scott), and Matthew, Megan, Aaron, Kristen, Gary, Emily, and Zachary. Al was a longtime resident of Chalmette and relocated to Slidell after Hurricane Katrina. He worked as a sales representative in the steel industry for over 30 years. He enjoyed spending time with family, working outside, woodworking, and enjoyed visiting the Great Smoky Mountains with his wife each fall. Al was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching sports of any kind, but particularly enjoyed watching Saints and LSU football games. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends and will live forever in the hearts of all who loved him. The family would like to thank the sitters who cared for him over the past year: Patty, Stacy, Pat, Liz, Debra, and the staff at Concerned Care Hospice. The funeral arrangements are private and being handled by Honaker Funeral Home in Slidell, LA. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans & Acadiana in his name. Please visit www.honakerforestlawn.com to sign guestbook.
Alvin “Al” Francis Daubert
Danika Marie Pentney
Danika Marie Pentney gained her wings on April 20, 2020 at the age of 30. She was born on April 12, 1990 in New Orleans, LA to Hugh Paul Pentney, Jr. and the late Bridget LeBoeuf Pentney. Loving granddaughter to Hugh Paul Pentney, Sr., Beverly Perez Pentney and the late Lindy LeBoeuf and Jean Campo LeBoeuf. Caring sister and best friend to Aszree Anna Pentney. Mother to Isaiah Paul Pentney and Liddy Marie Pentney. She is survived by one niece, Amari Jean Pentney, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends and a loving life partner, Frank Tumminello. Danika was very kind in spirit and huge in heart. She enjoyed spending time with her loved ones, was a very talented artist, and had a huge adoration for animals and plants. Danika was laid to eternal rest with her mother in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens in a private ceremony. Friends and relatives will be invited to a celebration of Danika’s life at a later date. To view and sign the Family Guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.
Joan Herpin
Sister Joan Herpin, MHS, Sister Mary Cyril or the former Martha Joan Herpin passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2020 at Prompt Succor Nursing Home in Opelousaus, LA at the age of 85. As the daughter of the late Seva and Albertine Dupont Herpin, she was born on July 12, 1934 in Kaplan, LA, where she received her education at Kaplan Elementary and High Schools and a B.A. in Education from USL (Presently ULL) in Lafayette, LA. Entering the Sisters of the Most Holy Sacrament in 1951, she professed her Perpetual Vows in 1956. At the time of her death she was in her 68th year of Religious Life. Sister Joan spent 42 years in Education Ministry serving as an elementary school teacher. Her ministry brought her to schools in Louisiana including St. Michael, Crowley; St. Joseph, Gretna; Our Lady Star of the Sea, St. Maurice and St. Monica in New Orleans; St. Louise de Marillac, Arabi and Our Lady of Fatima, Lafayette. She also taught in Mississippi at Our Lady of Victories Elementary School in Pascagoula. Sr. Joan will be remembered for her quiet, unassuming presence and her dry humor. She had a deep love for children and always enjoyed having conversations with children. She especially enjoyed preparing her second graders to receive their First Holy Communion. Sr. Joan has been a special blessing for many people throughout her life and will be missed by those who knew and loved her. She is survived by her sisters Rita Herpin and Annie Joyce Castille, her brother Lawrence Michael Herpin, numerous loving nieces and nephews, and her Religious family of the Sisters of the Most Holy Sacrament. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Jerome Herpin. The MHS Sisters wish to thank the Staffs at Bethany MHS Health Care Center and Prompt Succor Nursing Home for the excellent care Sister Joan received. Special thanks go to her nieces Rita Ann Montet and Martha Prince who were so dedicated to her. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sister Joan’s name to the Sisters of the Most Holy Sacrament, PO Box 90037, Lafayette, LA 70509-0037. A Graveside Service was held on Tuesday, May 12, 2020 in Calvary Cemetery, Lafayette, LA. Officiant: Reverend Chester C. Arceneaux, VF, Rector of Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. View the obituary and guestbook online at www.mourning.com
Norman Van Court, Sr.
Norman Van Court, Sr., or “Mr. Norman” as he was known at Norman’s Boxing Gym, heard the final bell on Sunday May 3, 2020 after 91 rounds. We thank Jesus for such a peaceful passing at home in bed surrounded by his wife, son, and daughter-in-law. Starting in 1939, Mr. Norman learned how to box at St Mary’s Gym in the French Quarter. He continued boxing after he joined the Marine Corps in 1947. When he was discharged, he returned to St. Mary’s Gym and Mr. Whitney. He later started training the kids of St. Bernard under his carport in Arabi, then he moved to his brother’s garage on Center Street when he had too many kids for the carport. With the help of the local politicians he eventually open the boxing gym on Community Street in the early 1960’s where it is still going strong to this day. In 2010, he was inducted into the St. Bernard Sports Hall of Fame. A few years ago, they named the street on side of the gym Mr. Norman St. He would say “I’m not even dead yet and they name the street after me Lol.” Whether a kid became a boxer or not didn’t matter to him; he said some kids just need a place to belong and they were welcome just trying to keep them off the street and away from drugs. You will be missed but surely not forgotten. From Golden Gloves to the Golden Gates. Enjoy Heaven Champ!
James “Jimmy” Thomas Becnel
James “Jimmy” Thomas Becnel passed away peacefully at West Jefferson Medical Center on Thursday, May 14, 2020 at the age of 76. Born June 10, 1943 and raised in Braithwaite, Louisiana, Jimmy attended Woodlawn and St. Stanislaus High Schools, and Southeastern Louisiana University graduating in 1966 with a degree in Business. Jimmy worked for the Lykes Brothers Steamship Company for 17 years and then for the United States Army Corps of Engineers. Jimmy was a well-known resident of the Esplanade Ridge neighborhood where he lived most of his life. Words cannot express our deep gratitude and appreciation for the care and compassion of the many nurses, aids and social workers at Jo Ellen Smith Living Center who cared for Jimmy over the better part of the last decade of his life. He is preceded in death by his parents, Eustis Simon Becnel and Jessie Collura Becnel. He is survived by his sister Carol Ann Becnel Thompson, and his nephews, Hays Brown Thompson III of Austin, TX; and Stephen Christopher Thompson of New Orleans, LA. A private graveside service for limited friends and family was held at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, New Orleans, LA on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, www.ccano.org, in memory of Jimmy. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.
Agnes Smith Chautin
Agnes Smith Chautin passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at the age of 76. She was the beloved wife of the late Ralph Joseph Chautin Jr. for 46 years to Agnes Smith Chautin. Loving mother of Allen R. Chautin (Rolanda), Donald J. Chautin (Gina), David L. Chautin (Brandi) and the late Ralph J. Chautin III. Daughter of the late Andrew Smith and Levada Owens Smith. Sister of Gladys “Marti” Martinez, Mary Ikyasang, Fred Smith, Jesse “Buddy” Smith and the late Clementine Martin, Earnesteen McLaurin, Swannie Durden, Curtis Smith, Clayton Smith, Joseph Smith and Albert Smith. Proud grandmother of Trista Duhon (Kenny), Shelby Weicks (Neil), Isabella Chautin, Ridge Chautin, Jake Chautin and Remie Chautin. Great-grandmother of Kenzie Duhon and Kate Duhon. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends. Agnes was born on February 22, 1944 in Fairmont, NC, and was a current resident of Slidell, LA. She was strong in her faith and was a devoted member of First Baptist Slidell Church. Agnes enjoyed the everyday things in life especially cooking, gardening and sewing. She loved the fun and friendship she gained as a longtime member of the Red Hat Society. Agnes will be remembered as a loving and loyal wife, mother and grandmother who treasured her family. She will be deeply missed by all of those whose lives she touched. A private funeral service was held at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Thursday, May 21, 2020. She will be laid to rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.
MaryAnn DiVincenti Choina
MaryAnn DiVincenti Choina passed away at home on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at the age of 74. She was a native of New Orleans, resided in Arabi and Metairie, and was a resident of Destrehan, LA, for over 25 years. MaryAnn was the devoted wife of Kenneth Choina Sr. for 58 years. Loving mother of Sharie Waguespack (Jean), Lori Lucia (Ryan), and Kenneth Jr. (Annette). Adoring grandmother of Brandon Choina (Tanya), Craig Lucia, Lauren Lucia, Kailen Choina, Brandon Morgan and Kyle Morgan; greatgrandmother of Matthew, Anna Catherine, Pierson and Brayden. She is also survived by her brothers Salvadore (Jeanine) and Louis DiVincenti, sisters-in-law Strelsa Young (Fred) and Julie Roddy (Dave), and brother-in-law Scott Choina (Voncille). Preceded in death by her parents Carlo and Rose Glorioso DiVincenti, brother Leonardo DiVincenti, brother-in-law Richard Choina, and sister-in-law Donna Choina Reichert. MaryAnn was employed by Associated Builders and Contractors for 22 years. She enjoyed attending their annual conferences at the San Destin Hilton in Florida where her family happily joined her. She enjoyed her weekly FaceTime calls with her greatgrandchildren, and she was an avid Saints fan. Her family is especially thankful for the loving care she received from Edna Richardson of the Medical Team. Funeral services will be private.
Clare Marie Delery
Clare Marie Delery, or “Sue” to those who knew her, has gone from this life to the eternal Joy of Heaven at the age of 68. She was the daughter of the late Edward J. Delery and late Clare F. Delery. Her siblings were the late Michael Delery, Kathleen “Cookie” D. Baxter, Jimmy Delery and Joe Delery. She was born August 5, 1951 and passed peacefully May 2, 2020 of apparent heart failure. Sue’s life story was unique. She was born a normal child but became brain damaged as the result of encephalitis as an infant. Her life would never be normal, requiring full-time total care. Her parents and family accepted her destiny with faith and belief one day she would share an Eternal Life with her Creator in Heaven. The journey of her life would be made without speaking a word, feeding herself, and any normal functions. Her only joys were a car ride, colorful paper she could crumple, a cold malt in her baby bottle, and her recliner chair. The challenge she lived inspired many around her in the early ‘60’s. Clare, her mother, found a school, Louis S. Davis School; for her to spend her days as a young child. Her father, Eddy, along with his childhood friend Crozet Duplantier, rallied public and political support for the ARC. Crozet Duplantier had a Downs Syndrome child as well Chris. Duplantier would be selected by President John F. Kennedy to lead the charge along with the Schriver family on the President’s Commission on Mental Retardation in Washington D.C. As Sue grew older and was almost a teenager, her parents were advised by social workers to place her at Hammond State School, a new state-of-the-art facility for the care of such individuals. It was a bright new approach with a surrounding of love and care. Eddy always knew how to engage others for the cause whether it was his friend, George Lehleitner, for Zenith TV’s; or his good friend, Stanley Diefenthal, who donated a full-size park train for the residents of Hammond State School to ride on. Eventually, Eddy would have worked with every Governor of Louisiana from John McKeithen to Mike Foster to insure the wellbeing of those needing special care. Sue outlived all expectations of her doctors, care givers and family. Sue’s mother, Clare, relentlessly visited Sue at the group home in Hammond, LA, until her final year at age 94. Our family thanks all who have touched Sue’s life and ask that we continue a human mission of love and kindness to those who are in need, especially those who cannot fend for themselves. She was loved by all who knew her but most of all by her Creator, who has now accepted her soul for Eternal life in Heaven along with her parents Clare and Eddy.
Carol Ann Haughton Lagarde
Carol Ann Haughton Lagarde passed from this life on May 7, 2020 after suffering a stroke on her birthday at the age of 78. She was born on April 26, 1942 in Ruston, LA, the only child of Guy G. and Elizabeth L. Haughton. Carol Ann was the wife of Gerard Andre Lagarde, the mother of Andrea E. Acosta, Marc L. Acosta (Rebecca) and Michael H. Acosta (Bing) and the step-mother of Andre J. Lagarde (Brittany) and Blake T. Lagarde. She is also survived by her grandchildren Marc L. Acosta, Jr. and Elizabeth R. Acosta to whom she was “Cici,” by her granddaughter Ashley LaRocca, by her step-grandchildren Ronna Lonbontare and Alondra Lonbontare to whom she was “Lola” and by her great grandchildren Tristin Ledet, Auerie Scallon, Mathew Scallon, Jr. and Brady LaRocca. Carol Ann was a graduate of St. Bernard High School and was Miss St. Bernard of 1960. During her working career, she was employed as a secretary and model by Beuerlein Advertising Agency, secretary to the principal of Lynn Oaks School and a Basic Logistics Associate for J. C. Penny Co. Over the years, she developed many friendships, but always shared a special sisterhood with Lynn Melcher and Esther Ringe. Throughout her life she was an avid collector whose tastes broadly ranged from fine Armani porcelain figures and Teddy Bears to Infant Jesus of Prague statutes and ballpein hammers. Carol Ann drew Jerry into this world of collecting and it provided a wonderful sharing experience for them with Saturdays spent searching for that “next treasure.” A devoted reader, Carol Ann was a fan of John Gresham and cook books based on rural Southern recipes but also had a deep interest in stories of the Holocaust and shared an interest in World War II history with Jerry. She will be deeply missed and her smile will always be remembered. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 444 Metairie Road, Metairie, LA on Thursday, May 28, at 11 a.m. Kindly note that we are obligated to observe certain guidelines mandated by the Governor’s office in conducting this service. Please check the website of St. Francis Xavier Church for further information in this regard. Carol Ann will be interred in Ruston, LA. In lieu of flowers, Jerry requests that donations in Carol Ann’s memory be made to the Holy Cross School Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund, 5500 Paris Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70122. The family extends its sincerest thanks to all those who prayed with us, stood by us and gave comfort to Carol Ann and all of us through this most difficult time. May God bless you all. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com
Eugene G. Maitrejean
Eugene G. Maitrejean, a decorated veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who proudly served his country during the Korean War, passed away peacefully at his home while surrounded by his family on Thursday, May 14, 2020, at the age of 88. He was the beloved husband of 57 years to Doris Katherine Doyle Maitrejean. He was the loving father of Pam M. Theady (Eddie), Eugene G. Maitrejean Jr. (Kay), Larry D. Maitrejean (Malin) and John B. Maitrejean (Heather). Son of the late John and Elenora Demotts Maitrejean. Brother of the late John Maitrejean, Justin Maitrejean, Shirley Walsh, Joseph Maitrejean and Wallace Maitrejean. Proud grandfather of Dominique T. Mixon (Andrew), Chaz Theady, Meredith & Madelyn Maitrejean, Anders & Colin Maitrejean and Chloe & Kate Maitrejean. He is also survived and fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. Eugene was a native of New Orleans, LA and a longtime resident of St. Bernard Parish where he enjoyed a long career as a Shift Supervisor with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Along with his service as a Corporal in the U.S. Marines, Eugene was a member of the VFW Post 7194, Council on Aging and enjoyed many years of ball games at the Community Park Playground in Arabi. He found pleasure in the details of everyday life and caring deeply for others. Eugene will always be remembered for his loyalty and dedication to his family and his country, his caring and loving spirit, his laughter, and spoiling the grandchildren. He was a wonderful example of what it means to care for others and will be deeply missed by us all. The family would like to express deep gratitude to Carter Davis M.D. and his staff, Sandra Kruse, Angie Copping, Marisa Martin and Krystal Shreve for your care and compassion when it was needed most. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Church, 2320 Paris Rd, Chalmette, LA on Monday, May 25, 2020 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by a Funeral Mass beginning at 12 p.m. He will be laid to eternal rest with Military Honors, next to his beloved wife in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Eugene’s memory to the National Autism Society at National Autism Society, 4340 West Highway, Suite 350, Bethesda, MD 20814, 800.328.8476; or Tunnels to Towers Foundation at 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 1030, 718.987.1931. To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.
Earl “Sonny” Joseph Manint, Jr.
Earl “Sonny” Joseph Manint, Jr., passed away Saturday, May 9, 2020, at his residence in Longview, WA, at the age of 82. He was born September 10, 1937, in New Orleans, LA. He moved to Longview in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina. Earl served in the military with the US Army. He was a member of Sheet Metal Local 11, and was employed at Avondale Ship Yard and Amex Nickel. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus at St. Rose Catholic Church, and belonged to the Longview Lions Club. Some of the things Earl enjoyed in life were hunting with his brother-in-law, Gerald (Red) and nephew, Rusty; motorcycling; fishing; watching TV; and sleeping. Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Earl J Manint, Sr., and Mildred Holmes Manint; sons, Earl ‘EJ’ J. Manint, III, Michael A. Manint; brother, James (Shirley) Manint; and nephews, Baby Randazzo and Dean Randazzo. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 61 years, Diana B. Manint; his children, Donna Manint (Randy) Melerine and Robert G. (Kay) Manint; grandchildren, Mandy Melerine (Dwayne) Sylvera, Colby (Mikayla) Melerine, Candace Melerine (Matt) Lomasney, Cameron Manint, and Logan Manint; great grandchildren, Hannah, DJ, and Lincoln; his sister, Martha Manint (Marvin) Ellis; and numerous nieces and nephews. Earl’s family would like to extend a special ‘Thank You’ to Frontier Rehabilitation and Extended Care Center of Longview, and Fr. Bryan Ochs and Fr. Sebastin Santhosh of St. Rose Catholic Church, also of Longview. Interment: St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home & Gardens’ Mausoleum, Chalmette, LA. Due to current Government restrictions, services will be announced by the family at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Sticklin Funeral Chapel in Centralia, WA.
Audrey Marie Pigeon Robert
Audrey Marie Pigeon Robert of Mandeville, LA, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2020 due to complications from COVID-19 at the age of 93. Audrey was born in New Orleans, LA on December 11, 1926. She was married to the late Albert Edgar Robert for 48 years. She is survived by her six children; Gary Robert (Debbie), Glenn Robert Rooney (Charlie), Dale Robert Neyland (Rick), Denise Robert Austin (Ray), Keith Robert, and Kim Robert Alexander; 10 grandchildren Chuck Rooney, Colleen Rooney Lloyd (Peter), Bridget Lara Murchison (Brad), Jay Lara (Natalie), Jonathan Robert (Terri), Dana Austin Fisher, Allison Lara, Dea Tamper, Monica Brasher (Brian) and Cole Neyland; and 15 great-grandchildren. Audrey was preceded in death by her parents, Lois Aucoin Pigeon and Harry Pigeon, brother, Richard Pigeon Sr. and grandson, Matthew Robert. Audrey was a longtime dedicated employee of Coleman E. Adler and Adler’s until she retired to Mandeville and became a resident of Roquette Lodge, where she enjoyed the company of many friends. She spent her final year as a resident of Heritage Manor in Mandeville. She loved being the matriarch and spending time with her family. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, 2320 Paris Road, Chalmette, LA 70043. Visitation begins at 10 a.m. and Mass starts at 11 a.m. The church respectfully requests all attendees to wear a face mask while inside the sanctuary. Inurnment will immediately follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery, 4900 Airline Dr., Metairie, LA 70001. Condolences and tributes can be posted at www.serenitycovington.com.
Gene Joseph Saia
Gene Joseph Saia passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 10, 2020, at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital of COVID-19 at the age of 65. Mr. Saia was a native of Louisiana and a resident of Mandeville, LA, since 1992. He was a graduate of Chalmette High and as a young man, Gene won the Louisiana Golden Glove for boxing and Silver for Southern Regional. Survivors include his siblings: Gail Saia Broussard (Jim), Vincent L. Saia, Jr. (Lynn), Brenda Saia Eschete-Nicosia and Lisa Saia LeBlanc (Claude, Jr.). He had a host of many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. He was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Vincent L. Saia, Sr. Arrangements are handled by Rabenhorst Funeral Home in Baton Rouge, LA. Interment and services were private due to COVID-19. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to your favorite charity.
David P. Cobb, Sr.
Captain David P. Cobb, Sr. passed away Sunday, April 5, at 12 a.m., as a resident of Greenbriar Community Care Center in Slidell, LA at the age of 90. He was the son of the late Jacob Eyes Cobb and Maude Foltmer Cobb. Brother of the late Mary, Vera, Ferol and Thelma. He was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Henrietta Bondio Cobb. Father of David Jr. (Janice) and Patrick Cobb. Grandfather of Kyle Cobb (Kaylin), Darren Trapani (Dana), and Nicholas Trapani (Melinda). Uncle Dave to Yvonne, Rae, Charles, Oliver, Fred, Brother, Kerry lee, Vincent, Trina, and Andrea. He was born July 7, 1929, in Wesson, MS. At an early age, he moved to the Irish Channel area of New Orleans, LA, with his family. He took to the port and sailed as a merchant marine until enlisting in the US Marine Corps, again sailing as a merchant until landing a mates position on the New Orleans Yacht Good Neighbor. He is a Korean War Veteran. He spent time at the wheel under Captain John Rucker and then moved to the helm of the fire tug Deluge as Captain, when ready. He finished his maritime career at the US Corp of Engineers Inner Harbor Lock facility as Lock Master (Industrial Canal). His later years were spent behind the wheel of his car in search of crispy bacon, very dark toast or macaroni and “dago” cheese, a true Sicilian at heart. Thank you to his friends at Charlie’s Diner in Violet, and a special thanks to John Marshall. My pop was a salty dog, gruff at times, but a real character with a big heart. Sail on, dad; we love you!
Kathey C. Mayer Ladner
Kathey C. Mayer Ladner entered eternal rest May 21, 2020 at the age of 70. Kathey was born in New Orleans on March 16, 1950. Before Hurricane Katrina, she was a faithful member of the First Pente costal Church of Chalmette. Kathey is preceded in death by her parents, Oral Mayer Sr. and Helen Mayer along with her brother, David Mayer. She is survived by brothers, Oral T. Mayer Jr. and Earl J. Mayer (Dianne Mayer); nieces and nephews, Dawn Driskell, Nicholas Marchese, Louis Beninato, Rachel Plata, Jonathan Mayer, and Gabrielle Mayer; cousins, Michael and Dody; and many other loving cousins and 13 great nieces and nephews. The services were held at Greenwood Cemetery on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. Officiant: Rev. Otto Martin III. The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at www.greenwoodfh.com.
Edith K. Perez Marquette
Edith K. Perez Marquette, a former resident of St. Bernard Parish, LA and a longtime resident of Slidell, LA passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2020, at Belle Maison Nursing Home in Hammond, O. 2 LA at the age of 83. She was born August 8, 1936, in Boston, MA to John Joseph Kelley and Lillian Wilkens Kelley. Edith was preceded in death by her parents John J. and Lillian W. Kelley; two sons Joseph Patrick Perez and Brian Matthew Perez; great-grandson Graham Wilhite; former husbands Clarence Perez Jr. and Robert Marquette. Survived by her children, Dawn Perez Cotogno (Bruce), Susan Perez Plaisance (Royce), John Michael Perez; her grandchildren Erica Plaisance, Lyndie Penland, Cari Wilhite, Brennan Cotogno, Amber Peyton; six great-grandchildren Arabella, Emmitt, Cate, Odin, Kirah and Avria. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2020 at Harvest World Outreach Church, 17197 N. I-12 Service Rd, Hammond, LA 70403. Her remains will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Slidell, LA. Edith had a sense of humor and was fierce, sassy and outspoken, while raising five children. She was a strong survivor who faced great adversity throughout life. She will be dearly remembered by her family and friends. Please visit www.honakerforestlawn.com to sign guestbook.
Arthur “Audie” James Packard, Jr.
Arthur “Audie” James Packard, Jr. entered into eternal life on Thursday, April 30, 2020 at the age of 36. Beloved son of Arthur James Packard, Sr. and Barbara Jean Fayard. Paternal Grandson of John F. Packard, Jr. and the late Catherine Rita Packard. Maternal Grandson of the late George and Doris Henry Victoriana. Loving father of Alycia Kay, Amaya Shea, Ayshia Rae & Ayanna Sunshine. Brother of Cheri Keiff, Thomas Fayard, Jr. and the late Ronnie Kieff, Jr. Uncle of Thomas Miller. Step-brother of Nicholas Fayard. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Audie was a life long resident of St. Bernard Parish and was loved by many. He will be remembered for his good looks, big heart and his love for cooking. You are deeply missed and will remain forever in our hearts. Family and friends attended the visitation and funeral mass in the Chapel of Charbonnet Family Services, 4917 E. Judge Perez Dr., Violet, LA on Thursday, May 28, 2020. Final arrangements entrusted to Charbonnet Family Services.
Claire Auderer Zanca
On May 14, 2020, Claire Zanca’s Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, called her home to be with Him after a blessed 100 years of life here. She joins her husband of 59 years, Vincent X. Zanca in heaven. Mother of Barry Zanca and Malcolm Zanca; motherin-law of Esther C. Zanca and the late Donna B. Zanca. Claire was born in New Orleans on September 5, 1919 and was the only child of William and Ada Auderer. She graduated from McMain High School, and then went to LSU where she met Vincent X. Zanca. They fell in love, and when he returned from WWII, were married on April 22, 1946. Claire Zanca taught ‘home-ec’ at Chalmette High School for several years. They moved to Hahnville for a short time as Vincent taught math there. The family then moved to New Orleans when Vincent became principal at Ridgewood Prep while Claire opted to become a homemaker with her two young boys. After their sons were grown, they moved to Ponchatoula, LA, and subsequently to Baton Rouge where they owned Harley-Davidson of BR. Claire was always very active in church, faithfully teaching Sunday School. She also held an effective home ministry for teenagers every week. Claire was a major supporter of the original Youth For Christ ministry in New Orleans. Her love was deep, her faith was deep and so was her life. For the past few years, Claire had been living at Old Jefferson Community Care Center in Baton Rouge after suffering a serious fall. During the last two weeks, she was under the care of St. Joseph’s Hospice in Baton Rouge. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to St. Joseph Hospice Foundation. Memorials may be sent to The Carpenter House, 10615 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70809. A private graveside service was held in Garden of Memories Cemetery on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. Due to restrictions because of the COVID-19 virus, a memorial will be scheduled at a later date.
Albert Joseph Avenel, Sr.
Albert Joseph Avenel, Sr. died peacefully on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at the age of 83. He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert Arthur Avenel and Vivian Louisa Petitfils, his grandmother Cornelia Estopinal Petitfils, his brothers Calvin Avenel and Brian Avenel, and his sisters Loretta A. Merrill and Yvonne A. Walker. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Geraldine Gallardo Avenel; sons, Albert Joseph Avenel, Jr. (Elizabeth) and Gary James Avenel (Kathleen); grandchildren, Melissa Avenel, Albert J. Avenel III, Margaret Avenel, Luke Avenel, Samuel Avenel, Mary Avenel, and great-grandson Elijah James Nicaud. He is also survived by his siblings Laura-Lee Sinclair, Charleen Finger, Lee Ann Porche, Alfred Alemany, Debra Alemany, William Avenel, Barbara A. Thibodeaux, Cathy A. Politte, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Albert was a graduate of Arabi High School, class of 1954. He was an active member in the National Guard for eight years. He enjoyed a career as an industrial mechanic at Kaiser Aluminum and CII Carbon. He was an active member and served as President of the US Steelworker’s Union, Local 13000. He served as a St. Bernard Parish School Board member for several years. Albert was an active parishioner of San Pedro Catholic Church and received the order of St. Louis Medal. He also had leadership roles throughout the church, helping to organize and run the annual blessing of the fleet for many years. Albert was a very loving, kind, and proud husband, father, grandfather, and friend. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Frances Blandi Beau
Frances Blandi Beau passed away on Monday, May 25, 2020 in Mandeville, LA. She was born on December 21, 1929 in New York, NY to the late Anthony G. Blandi and Lilia Denaci Blandi. Frances was the beloved wife of the late Robert "Bob" Alexander Beau, Sr. for 54 years. She was the loving mother of Robby A. Beau, Jr. (Laura), Lilia M. Beau, Tony Beau (Jackie), Edward C. Beau (Rose), Marguerite F. Beau (John), and Marie B. Tabony (André). She was proud of her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Frances was the sister of the late Anthony Blandi and survived by his wife, Suzanne Blandi. She will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, and friends. In her younger years, Frances enjoyed spending time in the Adirondack Mountains and had a lifelong love of the beach. In 1956, she married and moved to Arabi, Louisiana where she raised her family. She and Bob later moved to Folsom where they lived for 32 years and most recently, she lived in Mandeville, Louisiana. Frances had so much love for her family, a passion for cooking and she will be remembered most for her infectious laughter. The family held a private funeral mass at Mary, Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Mandeville, LA. Interment in Greenwood Cemetery, New Orleans, LA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice Foundation of the South, www.thehospicehouse.org. Please share a memory on the tribute wall at www.ejfieldingfh.com