Mary Helen Gioia

Mary Helen Gioia, age 87, of Chalmette, passed away on August 14 in New Orleans after a brief hospital stay. Mary is survived by Frank, her dedicated husband of 67 years, loving children Anthony (Fred), Judy (Victor), and Frank Jr. (Lisa), grandchildren Kelli (James), Matthew and Parker (Fara), and great-granddaughters Kaylee and Emma. Mary was born in New Orleans and graduated from John McDonogh High School. Mary lived for her family and was the center of their lives. Nothing made her happier than working on puzzles, games, and art projects with Kaylee and Emma. She had a lifelong love of animals and adopted a litter of homeless kittens that suddenly appeared in her backyard. She enjoyed her friends in AARP and their monthly casino excursions. Mary will be remembered by many for an annual visit with Santa that she and Frank hosted for several years at their Arabi home. Mary collected all of the toys and gifts throughout the year, and at the event, parents were served hot chocolate as the children visited with Santa and selected a toy. Mary said that she just loved Christmas and wanted every child to leave with a gift and a smile on their face. Family graveside service will be private. Special thanks to the ICU staff at Ochsner Medical Center.