Demerice Borchert

Demerice Lavado Taylor Borchert, who was also known as Dem, Mom, Aunt Dem and Mamie, breathed her last on March 8, 2023. She was preceded in death by her husband David, her siblings Mary, Billie, Brad, and Donna, and her grandchild Jordan. It has been said that she was epitome of the ‘southern lady’, known for being the keeper of family traditions and gracious host of many gatherings. She was the oldest of 5 children, mother of 2, stepmother of 4, grandmother of eleven, great grandmother of 5. She was survived by children Debra Riley Kraemer, Brenda Riley Willard, David A. Borchert (Paula), Loa Borchert, Lisa Borchert Thompson (Keith), Leslie Borchert Ockman (Jay); grandchildren: Joshua Borchert, Jessica K. Bailey (Limmie), Matthew Taylor, Matthew Borchert, Benjamin Thompson, Catherine Ockman Perez (Eduardo), Jacob Ockman (Vy), David Thompson (Emma), Jordan McNair (dec.), Trevor Willard, Brice Ockman; great -grandchildren: Limmie Bailey III, Cammie Bailey, Owen Kelly, Melody Thompson, Josephine Thompson. She started life in Columbia, MS, learning many family traditions at the knee of her beloved mother and equally dear Grandmother Jesse. Upon the death of her mother the family moved to Harahan, LA. She married John Zuber Riley, aka, Jack, and soon had two amazing daughters who grew up in Terrytown, LA. During these years Dem was involved in Girl Scouting. She loved being in nature, and she loved sharing her passion for nature and survival. She hoped to ignite that same passion in the hearts and minds of the next generation. In addition to leading girls, she was involved in leadership training. Her dedication to Farrell Lines in New Orleans was a highlight of her professional career. She fondly shared memories of her time in working there. In 1984 she was swept off her feet by David Borchert, aka “Pop”. The couple married, resided in Terrytown and filled their time with caring for their grandchildren, spending time camping at RPM, and sharing a dream of country life. Starting in 1986, David’s mother moved in with them. Dem lovingly cared for Grandma Borchert until her death in 1993. The couple’s dream to move back to their country roots was realized in 1994. Dogwood, their beloved farm, became the “gathering place” of their dreams. Here Dem was able share her family traditions not only with her immediate family, but with any extended family or friend that was lucky enough to be invited. She was a fabulous cook and loved to feed her family and friends. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter were feasts of food and family, with crowds that usually numbered in the 30’s. These special times filled the farm with love, laughter, and fellowship. She especially loved having all the cousins gathered. There were campfires, walk abouts, poker games where everyone got their special poker names, chores, tractor rides, fishing, animals, and cocktail hour. Christmas was the ultimate holiday. Starting with the magnificent tree, it included 3 turkeys, 2 hams, world famous oyster dressing, Waldorf salad, and more pies than a bakery. All looked forward to the past, present, and future gifts. Dem’s love of nature blossomed and was passed on to all who visited the farm. The Dogwood was filled with azaleas, blueberries, frog ponds and trees. It was a sanctuary for animals –from chickens, geese, and peacocks to horses, sheep, goats, and even “Dolly” llama. Along with the domestic animals, birds, raccoons, and ‘possums benefited from her generosity. Let’s not forget Beebee, Smudge, Chance, Blue, and a host of other felines and canines that enjoyed her care. With a hiking stick and bandanna she worked alongside Pop to keep the place beautiful. She filled her grandchildren’s lives with wonder and knowledge. She left her mark on the lives of any who visited her little piece of heaven on earth. She will be greatly missed. We know that she lived her life on her own terms. The funeral services will be private.