Gayle Ernst Chouest passed away peacefully on October 6, 2023 at the age of 73 surrounded by loved ones. She was born on November 6, 1949 in Jefferson, Louisiana. After graduating from Archbishop Chapelle High School and attending business school she went on to develop a career as a bookkeeper, working many years at Maritime Endeavors.
Gayle loved to cook for her family and tell you all about how she cooked her dishes. She enjoyed getting pedicures, manicures and her hair done- she wanted to make sure she was always presentable.
She was a member of Parents Without Partners where she met her husband, Troy and were married for 17 years until his passing.
She then found The Red Hats Society where she looked forward to outings with her red hat ladies group, enjoying lunches, movies, and good ole laughter.
Most of all, Gayle absolutely loved her family- especially her grandkids and great grandkids.
She is survived by her daughter, Cherie Decker (Donald), Ramona Williamson (Scott), Sara Smoot,: son, Enrique O. Gutierrez III (Beth); sisters, Mary Braquet (Pete) and Lindelle Nichols (George); brothers, Burton Ernst (Bee) and John Ernst (Lisa); grandchildren, Collin Decker (Sarah), Peyton Decker (Libby), Joshua Gutierrez, and Brenna Gutierrez, Amelia Williamson, Layah, Jade, and Michah Smoot; great grandchildren, Beckham, Gideon, and Mila Decker.
Gayle is preceded in death by her husband of 17 years, Troy Chouest; and her parents, Burton and Rita Ernst.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Pete and Mary Braquet for their many years of selfless dedication to wholeheartedly caring for Gayle. Mary especially provided extraordinary care and support that will always be remembered.
The family would also like to extend their gratitude to Shavon Earl who would come over every day for years to help Gayle with her daily personal needs when we were unable to do so.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 13396 River Road in Destrehan, Louisiana, on Friday, October 13, 2023 at 12 PM. Visitation will begin in the church at 10 AM. Gayle will be laid to rest in Lake Lawn Park following the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, 3445 N Causeway Blvd Metairie, LA 70002 and to Second Harvest Food Bank, 700 Edwards Ave. New Orleans, LA 70123
To view and sign the family guestbook, visit lakelawnmetairie.com
