Our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, Elsie Francis Beaucoudray, passed away peacefully at the age of 96. She was a cherished woman whose life was filled with love, faith, family, and service to others. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold, who passed away in 1996. Though she carried the loss of her husband for many years, she continued to live her life with strength, grace, and an unwavering love for her family.
Elsie leaves to cherish her memory her two loving sons, Hershel Wiggins Jr. (Wanda) and Wayne Wiggins Sr. (Toralyn); her six grandchildren, Chad, Blake, Devin, Wayne Jr., Dale and Madison and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, along with other relatives, friends, and loved ones whose lives she touched throughout her remarkable 96 years. She is preceded in death by her husband, Harold Beaucoudray Sr.; her parents, Eugene Dow and Christine Kenmure Dow; her seven siblings.
Elsie was a woman who loved people and found joy in making others feel welcome. Her love extended beyond her home and into her church community, where she enjoyed cooking and serving others. She had a special gift for preparing food with love and making sure that those around her were cared for. She also knew how to enjoy life. Every week, she looked forward to getting her hair done and taking pride in looking and feeling her best. She enjoyed going to the casino, playing bingo, and spending time with the people she loved. But above all, her greatest joy was her children and grandchildren. Family meant everything to her, and the love she gave them will continue to live on through every generation that follows.
At 96 years old, she leaves behind not only memories, but a beautiful legacy of love, family, faith, kindness, and service. The lessons she taught, the meals she prepared, the laughter she shared, and the love she poured into her family will never be forgotten. Though our hearts are heavy with her passing, we are grateful for the many years we were blessed to have her with us. We will miss her dearly, but we will carry her love in our hearts forever. Rest peacefully, Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, and Great-Great-Grandma. Your work here is done, but your love and legacy will live on forever.
All those whose lives Elsie has touched are invited to attend a visitation to be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 9:00AM- 11:00AM. A funeral service will begin at 11:00AM. Burial will follow in ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL GARDENS.
