Geraldine "Gerri" Willes

Geradine “Gerri” Willes, 85, of Covington, LA passed away on April 18, 2026, at the Fidelis Hospice House. She was born on December 25, 1940, in New Orleans to the late Forrest & Ilma Boutte. Gerri is preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Jack Boutte.

Gerri grew up in New Orleans and graduated from Annunciation High School in 1958. Gerri then started her professional career working for AT&T. After several years she went on to work for Louis Dutel Sr. where she learned how to set up property sales. This is where Gerri thrived and really got to know the business and industry. After leaving Dutel’s she went on to manage several law firm offices before retiring in 2001.

Gerri met Bill in New Orleans in 1974. After about nine months they were married on May 21, 1975. They renovated a house built in 1911 which served as their residence till 1985. After a move to Lakeview they decided to leave New Orleans and build their dream house in Pass Christian, Mississippi. That dream ended in about four years after Katrina completely destroyed the home. After spending several months in Jackson, Mississippi they moved to the North Shore.

Gerri enjoyed cooking and took great pride in her home. She also liked gardening, reading and doing word puzzles. Since Gerri was born on Christmas it became her favorite holiday. She accumulated many ornaments, Santa’s and various stuffed animals. When she decorated the Christmas tree there wasn’t one branch left bare. Her and Bill loved traveling and went on a number of cruises to the islands, Alaska and Mediterranean. They also loved to fiy to cities and rent a car and just wander and see the sights. Gerri was a loving a devoted wife. She had a spontaneous personality and a huge smile. Every place she worked she accumulated new friends. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Gerri is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, William “Bill” Willes; sister, Judy Boudoin. Gerri also leaves behind to cherish her memory a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family.

A memorial service will be held to honor her memory. Gerri wished to be cremated so there will be no viewing. You are invited for a visitation starting at 11:00 A.M. Light refreshments will be served from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Grace Funeral Home (450 Holy Trinity Drive, Covington). Gerri’s Funeral Service will start in the chapel at 12:00 pm. We will honor Gerri’s life with memories and listen to an inspiring benediction from Dr. Waylon Bailey. Dr. Bailey is the pastor of First Baptist Church of Covington and is widely known for his thoughtful and inspiring messages. You are invited to watch his weekly sermons at (WWW.FBCcov.org). I hope you will join us in a final farewell to a special person that touched all our lives.