Aura Chassi Santos

Aura Chassi Santos, 86, peacefully entered eternal rest on February 20, 2026, in her home in Kenner, Louisiana surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 10, 1939, in Manta, Ecuador, Aura carried the warmth of her coastal hometown with her everywhere she went in her laughter, in her cooking, and in the way she welcomed people into her home.

Aura was the beloved wife of Washington Santos, her devoted partner of 67 years. Together, they built not only a business but a life rooted in faith, hard work, and unwavering love. Side by side, they owned and operated Santos Tailoring for 28 years, serving their community with skill and dedication. As a talented seamstress, Aura had gifted hands able to mend, create, and beautify but her greatest masterpiece was the family she nurtured so fiercely.

She was a proud and loving mother to Sisney Durand, Tanya Huezo, and Eugenio Santos. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Lance Durand, Alexis Pechon, Tabitha Huezo, Joshua Huezo, Kennen Santos, and Kolston Santos; and her precious great-grandchildren: Benjamin Pechon, Margot Pechon, Cade Cangelosi, Cannon Cangelosi, and Cameron Cangelosi. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jose David Chassi and Maria Arteaga, and her brothers Nicolas Chassi and Angel Chassi. She is also survived by her siblings Olga Mendoza, and Blanca Cadena.

Aura was strong-willed, fiercely loving, and wonderfully humorous. She had a way of making everyone laugh often with her quick wit and her favorite saying, “Si Dios quiere.” Her faith as a devout Catholic anchored her life, and she trusted deeply in God’s will.

Her home was the heart of the family. For many years, New Year’s and Thanksgiving gatherings were lovingly hosted under her roof filled with food, laughter, music, and the joy of being together. She loved tending to her garden, cooking meals that brought everyone to the table, dancing merengue and salsa, listening to old pasillos, and spending time with her husband and family.

Some of the family' s favorite memories were being a part of the Ecuador Sporting Club, where Saturday nights were spent dancing and conversing with family and friends, and Sundays were devoted to lakefront picnics, fellowship with friends, and watching her husband play soccer and volleyball games.

Aura’s life was one of devotion to her husband, her children, her grandchildren, and to God. She loved fiercely and completely, and that love will continue to ripple through generations.

A funeral service honoring Aura’s life will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, located at 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, New Orleans, Louisiana. Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by a Mass and then burial at Lake Lawn Park.

Though her earthly presence will be deeply missed, her laughter, her strength, and her love remain woven into the fabric of her family, a beautiful seam that will never unravel.

“Si Dios quiere.”