Lena Mae Tait

Lena Mae Grisaffi Tait, 92, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 16, 2026. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, and her presence will be deeply missed.

She was born on January 10, 1934, in New Orleans, LA to proud parents Frances Scardino Grisaffi and John J. Grisaffi Sr. Lena is the oldest of four children, with siblings John J. Grisaffi Jr., Lana Grisaffi LeBlanc, and Rosalind Grisaffi Cochran. She married in 1950 to Laurence P. Tait Jr., and in 1969, she and Laurence moved their family to Friendswood, Texas where they became involved in their community and raised a family. Always industrious and full of grace, Lena later pursued a career as a manicurist and esthetician working full-time alongside her daughter and son-in-law at their salon, Shear Pleasure, until the age of 88. Her work ethics and dedication were unmatched.

Lena was the heart of her family, a constant source of strength, wisdom, unwavering love, and a devoted woman of faith. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, sharing meals with those she loved, serving at her church, and praying for those she loved. Her faith was not just something she believed – it was something she lived, quietly in every act of kindness and every word of encouragement she offered.

She is survived by her four devoted children and spouses, Larry Tait, Bruce Tait (wife Deborah), Darleen Gage (husband Daniel), Denise Havenar (husband John); 15 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; 8 great-great grandchildren; brother, John J. Grisaffi Jr.; and sister, Lana LeBlanc (husband John). She also leaves behind many cherished cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Lena is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Rosalind, Laurence P. Tait Jr., daughter-in-law Janis Tait, and niece Kiersten LeBlanc Tyler.

She will be remembered not only for what she did, but for who she was. Her laughter, presence, warmth, and quiet understanding will never be forgotten. Though our hearts are heavy, we are incredibly grateful to have known her, loved her, and been shaped by her life.

A service to celebrate her life will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 9:00 am at Forest Park East Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Forest Park Cemetery. Visitation for family only will be held from 8:30 am to 9:00 am.

Those wishing to honor Lena are invited to consider a donation to one of the charities listed below that were close to her heart or planting a tree in her memory.

Charities: St. Judes, Shriners Children's, Star of Hope, Wounded Warriors