Mary Riggio Melancon

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary Riggio Melancon on Thursday, August 7, 2025. Her light has been extinguished, but her spirit will remain in the hearts of all whom she has touched. Mary was born on January 27, 1932 in the heart of New Orleans. During her life, she and her family lived in San Jose, California for a brief eight years where her extended family continues to reside.

Mary and her immediate family returned to the "City that Care Forgot" to resume her life as a Southern Lady in 1959. Mary was married to Dennis Joseph Melancon, Sr (ne' Denis) who passed on November 4, 2004 to make a path for Mary's eventual arrival in heaven. She is survived by her four sons: Dennis Jr, Michael (Tommy), Richard (Charlotte), and Mark (Donna). She leaves behind three Grandchildren: Nicolette O'Dell (Devin), Mark Jr (Julie), Brittany Henao (Sebastian), and four Great-grandchildren: Cruz Henao, Luca Henao, Evelyn O'Dell, and Sean O'Dell.

Mary lived a full life with many experiences and no regrets. She grew up in Gentilly living a happy life with her parents (Joe & Lena Riggio), her grandmother (Annie Canino Tuminello) and her two brothers Philip (Lorraine) and Joe, Jr (Marsha). Mary married in 1949 at age 17 and focused her energy on her family. Later she built a second career as a substitute teacher, then as a secretary in the St. Bernard Parish School System, from which she retired.

Mary enjoyed traveling, winning at the casinos, visiting with family, and spending time with her friends. Her days were filled with storytelling, laughing, and being with others to brighten their days. During her life, Mary and Dennis traveled throughout the US and internationally, as well. One of Mary and Dennis' favorite vacations was their trip to Hawaii with Mary's brother and his wife (Joe & Marsha).

Mary's funeral services will be held at St. Bernard Funeral Home, 701 West Virtue St., Chalmette, LA 70043 on Saturday August 23, 2025. Public visitation from 11:00AM – 1:00PM, followed by a Funeral Mass beginning at 1:00PM. From there, guests are invited to visit the graveside immediately (which is adjacent to the funeral home) where Mary will be reunited with her loving Husband, Dennis, for all time.