Jeanne Marie Dufour

Jeanne Marie Dufour passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at the age of 84. Her final days were shared with family and friends who had been touched by her kindness and presence over the years. She was the cherished wife of 65 years to Allen Jean Dufour. Loving mother of Robert Jean Dufour (Bonnie) and Rodney Allen Dufour (Maria). Proud grandmother of Lydia Maxine Dufour. Daughter of the late Daniel William Cooper Sr. and Bertha Braquet Cooper. Sister of Michael Cooper, Jean Cooper (Joyce) and the late Daniel Cooper (Charlotte), Allan Cooper (Yvonne) and David Cooper. She is also survived and fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Born in New Orleans, LA, Jeanne was a beloved wife, sister, daughter, grandmother, friend, and, above all, our irreplaceable mother. Her life was defined by her love, kindness, laughter, and simple pleasures — red beans and rice, Tom Jones, and cozy afghan blankets. In order to honor her only grandchild, Lydia, she took special care to crochet beautiful dresses and baby clothes to celebrate her birth. She had an ability to make everyone feel special, whether through the gifting of her small crafts to strangers or the comfort of her cooking. Her red beans and rice were a family favorite, and nothing gave her more joy than sharing a meal with those she loved, always claiming the rounded ends of the French bread as her own during family dinners.

Jeanne's unwavering support for her two sons was always evident, if a bit eccentric. She never missed one of Robert’s high school basketball games, convinced every moment was the climax of an action movie and he was one step away from a career-ending injury. When Rodney became a funeral director, she puzzled over his decision, blaming it on her husband’s “history inspiring” trips to the local cemeteries (every single one of them). As a mother, Jeanne wore many hats — nurse, costume designer, homework helper, birthday cake baker, disciplinarian — but always with a sense of purpose and done with love. She was always there with a kind word, a comforting embrace, and a stern life lesson when needed.

Although she wasn't known as an animal lover in her youth, she had a special place in her heart for her dogs, especially “Potsie” and “Tootsie" were by far her most beloved pets (Noozie and Inky deserve an honorable mention). Although her growing fondness for animals was a mystery to those around her, it was clear her love for them was real and brought her deep satisfaction. She also had a heart for others, especially compassionate towards the elderly and always found joy in helping those in need. She took great pride in the careers of her sons, knowing that they were following in her footsteps of service to others.

Rest in peace, our beautiful, precious Mom. Our lives were more joyful, complete and profound because you stood by our side. Your strength, kindness and quiet grace shaped our lives in ways we could never fully express and the love you gave us was a gift beyond measure that we will carry it with us until we meet you again. It’s so hard to say goodbye. I'm struggling hard to find the right words, as if it will somehow make this separation hurt less. We will always wish that we had one more day with you. We wish that the last year of your life had not been lost to your illness, that things could have been different for you. Yet, throughout your illness, you still managed to laugh and smile. This perseverance through adversity is a powerful lesson for us, and I believe it will be your most lasting quality. What a wonderful example you lived for us - remaining grounded in what truly matters, keep your heart aligned with your deepest values, treasure and nurture the ones you love.

Though your passing so soon after Dad feels impossible to comprehend, it gives us comfort to know that you and dad now together again, side by side, just as you always were in life. These tiny snapshots of your life will always make us smile, but never capture the depth of love, wisdom, and warmth you shared with us. One day, we hope we can remember the joy you brought into our lives without being overwhelmed by sorrow. Until then, we will live for you, smile for you, laugh for you, and honor your memory with every step we take.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Friday, February 14th from 11:00AM - 1:00PM, followed by a memorial service in her memory beginning at 1:00PM. She will be laid to eternal rest in a private ceremony in Metairie Cemetery.