Ann Barrett Kennedy

Ann had a well-developed sense of the ironic, complemented by a compulsion to flout tradition and societal conventions. With an ever-present sense of humor and the ability to connect with people of all walks of life, she was caring, compassionate, and deeply appreciative of authentic people and their beliefs. An avid reader and a connoisseur of the whimsy of human experience, she had an encyclopedic mind from which she widely and willingly shared the knowledge acquired through her unabiding curiosity.

Ann graduated from Isidore Newman School and Newcomb College. She earned her teaching certification from Tulane Center for Teacher Education, and graduate degrees in Library Science and Landscape Architecture from LSU. She spent her career working as a librarian at Metairie Park Country Day School and at the New Orleans Public Library. At NOPL, she headed the library’s Urban Affairs Service and took delight in helping patrons find answers to their most pressing questions. In retirement, Ann became a Master Gardener of Greater New Orleans, volunteering her time and expertise with the ARC, Parkway Partners, Latter Library, and Audubon Park, among others.

She loved her family, her community, her animal companions, her garden, and her own idiosyncrasies. A daughter of Drs. Barrett and Rebecca Kennedy, she is survived by her daughters, Wendy Seemann Diaz del Valle (Tony) and Erica Seemann; her siblings, Carol McGowen (Milton), Sally Martin (Jim), Barrett Kennedy (Peggy Reily); her grandchildren, Julia Lemann, Max Lemann, and Sofia Diaz del Valle; numerous nieces and nephews; and Roo and Sugar Foot. She will be remembered by all who even once enjoyed the pleasure of her engaging character and generous spirit. New Orleans has lost another one of its irreplaceable treasures.

A celebration of Ann’s life and spirit will be held for family and friends in the garden of Milton H. Latter Memorial Library on Saturday, November 30 from 2 - 4 pm. In lieu of flowers, Ann’s memory may be honored by donations to Friends of the New Orleans Public Library, environmental conservation, animal rescue, or any charitable endeavor that supports the greater good.

To view and sign the family guestbook please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com