Mary Kathryn “Kathy” Hebert, a native of Plaquemine and resident of Baton Rouge passed away on March 19, 2025 at the age of 81. She is preceded in death by her devoted husband, Henry Hebert, and her parents, Marjorie and Omer Hebert. She is survived by her loving brother, King Hebert (Sue) and her three children, Jodie Hebert (Les Frick); Brian Hebert (Tara Gauthreaux); and, Rachael Pavlik (Matthew). She had three biological grandchildren: Alex Hebert (Ben Safavinia), Henry Pavlik and Camille Pavlik; as well as, three step-grandchildren: Christopher Sasser (Kim), Morgan Sasser (Samir Mehta) and Jacob Frick. Kathy attended St. John the Evangelist High School in Plaquemine, then St. Mary’s Dominican College in New Orleans where she acquired a BA in English. Her love of writing and poetry was evident early on. Kathy and Henry married in 1964 and had three children: Jodie, Brian and Rachael. They made their home on Owen Street in Baton Rouge for the past 50 years where they hosted formal Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and wedding parties as well as many informal gatherings for football games and crawfish boils. Kathy was a deeply intellectual and passionate person who loved literature, historical drama and the arts, especially the designs of Frank Lloyd Wright. Her personal library included some of the greatest novels ever written some of which she read multiple times. She was most generous and a great benefactor of the less fortunate. She was known to offer a bed and breakfast to all family, weary travelers and even strangers in need. Kathy loved decorating and entertaining as well as fine dining. She was well known by managers of Ruth’s Chris Steak house where she enjoyed a good filet and a Stoli martini. Known mostly as a lady of leisure and the original “domestic goddess,” early in their marriage Kathy did work for the former “welfare office” (now DCFS), as social causes were of paramount importance to her. She later took on the responsibility as the bookkeeper of Lighting and Electrical Associates, Inc. (BR) Henry’s business. (She made her own hours, naturally!) They traveled extensively to many countries in Europe, South America, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. As a sassy and adventurous 60-something year old, Kathy even dared Henry to accompany her on a zip line down a mountain in Costa Rica! In the later years, Kathy’s home remained a haven and restful place for all, where she received many guests and continued to entertain with her witty banter and soulful conversations. She remained quite discerning about her mealtime preferences, which included the use of her sterling silver baby spoon or fork, a practice which her children found quite comical. She earned the devotion of her beloved housekeeper, Raquel; and the nickname of “Begonia” from her long-time yardman, Injun Joe. After the passing of Henry, many friends and neighbors remained faithful in visiting and checking on her. Next door neighbor, Celeste Chargois, never missed their daily coffee talks. Kathy’s unique spirit will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her. A celebration of both Kathy and Henry's life will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church on April 7, 2025 at 10am (visitation starting at 9am) with reception following at the OLOM Parish Activity Center.
