Lavrne B Guidry

Guidry, Laverne Bridget Babin, affectionately known as ‘Aunt Verne’, was welcomed home to Heaven on Friday, September 9, 2016 at the age of 81. She was born on October 10, 1934, and was a native of Gonzales, Louisiana.

She was preceded in death by her husband; Patrick Guidry, her father; Sidney Louis Babin Sr., her mother; Inez Lanoux Babin, and her nephew; Troy Babin.

She is survived by three brothers, Donald Babin, S.L. Pookie Babin Jr., and wife; Connie, Ronald “Pie” Babin, a beloved cousin Cheryl LeBlanc, numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

Laverne graduated from Gonzales High School in 1952. She often spoke about the many memories of her high school days and remained lifelong friends with Audrey Braud and Beboe Kelleher. One of her favorite high school memories involved going to Casso’s with her friends to play the jukebox and dance during lunch.

Laverne’s love of dancing extended to her teaching others to dance at Arthur Murray Dance Studio. This was the very place she met the love of her life, Pat. He actually responded to an ad for a salesman. He didn’t realize the ad was to sell dance lessons. He winded up getting the job and winning her heart even though he couldn’t dance. She and Pat enjoyed many happy years together. They loved to travel and were able to visit 48 states and 3 provinces in Canada. They also loved fishing in Grand Isle and camping at Yogi Bear Park. They bought a travel trailer after Pat received a heart transplant and continued to travel and enjoy life together. She was an energetic lady who loved serving others. She volunteered at St. Elizabeth Hospital gift shop for several years. She also assisted teachers and students at Lake Elementary in St. Amant as an honorary grandparent. She was a devout Catholic and as part of her ministry, she sewed 100s of little bears for hospital patients, nursing home residents, and the elderly home-bound parishioners.

Her love of sewing was demonstrated by the clothes and crafts she made. One special memory was the matching Easter dresses she made for all of her nieces and some of their cousins. She also designed and fashioned a pageant dress for her niece, Pam for the Little Miss Gonzales Pageant. She created dancing bears, pillows, and Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, and also crocheted numerous afghans.

Her family agrees that she was an amazing cook. Her zucchini casserole and pecan pies were always a traditional side dish and dessert at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. She also made a delicious banana pudding. Her favorite TV show was “The Golden Girls”. She would often entertain her family members with the word for word recitation of each episode. Her kindness and compassion for others, her sweet smile, her beautiful blue eyes and great sense of humor will be greatly missed. The family wishes to thank Theresa Rivere for outstanding care over these last five months. She truly was a blessing to Aunt Verne. They would also like to thank Ms. Dawn for assisting with baths, and the Southern Care team; Christy, Mr. Eddie, and Wanda for all of their support and care as well. Heartfelt appreciation is also extended to (great nieces) Brittnie, Rheesa, and Brylie, (great nephew) Brant, and (great nephew in law) Cody Caldarera for taking turns each night to watch over her. She truly enjoyed their company.

Pallbearers will be Pookie Babin, David Gautreau, Mike Babin, Keith Babin, Brant Gautreau, and Chez Babin.

Service will be held at St. Theresa of Avila in Gonzales on Wednesday, September 14. Visitation is from 9:00-10:00 AM followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. Interment is at Port Hudson National Cemetery at 1:00.

Arrangements are being handled by Ourso Funeral Home of Gonzales, friends who may not be able to attend may leave words of condolences at www.oursofh.com