Sandra Istre Louviere

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that the Louviere family announces the passing of Sandra Istre Louviere, the matriarch and heart of our family. Sandra passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Ochsner Lafayette General, surrounded by those she loved most. She was 58.

Sandra was born on November 27, 1967, in New Iberia to Rose Hargrave Istre and the late Horace Istre. From an early age, she was instilled with the values of kindness, compassion, and selflessness—qualities that would define her life. She was raised in New Iberia and graduated from New Iberia Senior High School, Class of 1985.

Following graduation, Sandra began her career as a hairstylist with Fantastic Sams. It was during this time that she discovered her true calling while working as a substitute teacher. What began as a willingness to help soon blossomed into a lifelong passion. Sandra went on to become a paraeducator and later earned her degree in Education, specializing in Special Education.

Affectionately known as “Miss Sandra,” she dedicated over 25 years to teaching and guiding her students, each of whom she loved as if they were her own. She built lasting bonds with countless children and found immense joy in every moment spent helping them grow and succeed.

While Sandra took great pride in her career, her greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and the heart of her home. She gave endlessly of herself to ensure her family felt supported, cherished, and cared for. Sandra was a proud and involved parent—serving as a den mother for her sons during their Cub Scout years and as a troop leader for Natalie in Girl Scouts. She could often be found organizing cookie sales, helping with camping and fishing trips, and cheering on her children as a dedicated band mom, soccer mom, and even coach.

Sandra’s happiest moments were those spent surrounded by family. Whether hosting gatherings at home with her famous tuna casserole, spaghetti, or gumbo, or enjoying quiet mornings with a cup of coffee and heartfelt conversation, she made every moment meaningful. She also had a deep love for the outdoors and found peace and joy in nature.

Some of her most treasured memories were made fishing and crabbing at Rockefeller—her “happy place”—as well as on the many cruises and beach vacations she shared with loved ones. She was a proud “beach bum,” especially cherishing time spent on Dauphin Island and along the Gulf Coast. No matter the destination, Sandra’s heart was fullest when her family was near.

Sandra will be remembered as the most loving, compassionate, and caring wife, mother, daughter, sister, teacher, and friend. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in our faith and the hope that we will one day be reunited. Until then, we say, rest well, good and faithful servant.

Those left to cherish her memory include her devoted husband of 36 years, Blaise “Bubby” Louviere; her children, Chaz Christopher Louviere (Brittany), Jake Thomas Louviere (Meghan), and Natalie Gayle Louviere; and her first grandchild, whose arrival in September she eagerly awaited with great joy. She is also survived by her mother, Rose Hargrave Istre; her brother, Keith Istre; her godchildren, Collin Fissel and Robin LeMaire; her brothers-in-law, John LeMaire, Dennis Louviere III, and Mark Fissel; and her beloved nieces and nephews, Abigail LeMaire, Stephen LeMaire, Katie Louviere, Kyla Pecoraro, and Alex Fissel.

Sandra is preceded in death by her father, Horace Istre; her sister, Michelle LeMaire; her sister-in-law, Nanette Fissel; her brother-in-law, Kevin Louviere; and her nephew, Ryan Fissel.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Evangeline Funeral Home on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., at which time the family will share special reflections in honor of Sandra’s life. Following the service, she will be laid to rest privately at Holy Family Cemetery.

Family and friends are invited to share their condolences and memories by visiting Sandra’s memorial page at www.evangelinenewiberia.com.

Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.