Orabe S. Lewis

Born on February 21, 1935, in New Orleans, Louisiana, she was the daughter of the late Dorothy Bolch Henderson and Ephraim Sneed. After a sudden change in her health on September 28, she spent six days in the ICU surrounded by the prayers and love of her family before taking her final breath at 6:30 a.m.

Throughout her life, Orabe devoted herself to hard work and caring for others. She held many meaningful jobs—from working in a food processing plant to serving as a housekeeper, clerical worker in a bank, and caregiver for the elderly. She took great pride in every role, always known for her honesty, kindness, and strong work ethic.

At home, Orabe found joy in cooking Sunday dinners and preparing her famous seafood gumbo and sweet potato pies during the holidays. In her younger years, she enjoyed sewing and traveling with Paul. Her faith was central to her life—she spent time daily reading her devotional books and cherished moments of quiet reflection. Her favorite color was purple, and she welcomed everyone who entered her home with warmth and a cup of hot coffee.

Orabe was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 23 years, Paul Lewis, Jr., her first husband James Collins, her sisters Elbe Tombar and Joyce Poplus, her brother Ronald Porter, and her eldest daughter Andrell Thompson.

She is survived by her devoted sister Jacqueline Porter, her daughters Gilda Collins Domingue (Keith) and Michelle Collins; son James Collins, Jr. ; grandchildren, Danielle (Douglas) Sumi, Shantell (Al) Wallace, Keith Chaney, Brian Thompson, Bob (Teranie) Thompson, Jr., Brandon Thompson, Keith R. Domingue, Jr., Samuel White, Dominick M. White, Justin (Dernika) Rusk, and Jabryon Collins; 21 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. She was also dearly loved by her loyal little black dog, Missy.

Through her marriage to Paul, Orabe was blessed with three adult stepchildren: Deborah Harris, Paula Robinson (deceased), and Rodney Lewis, along with nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

A visitation for Orabe will be held Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Ourso Funeral Home, 13533 Airline Hwy, Gonzales, Louisiana 70737, followed by a celebration of life at 12:00 PM.

The family extends heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff at Ochsner Kenner Hospital, as well as to the many friends and family members who offered love, prayers, and support during her final days.

Orabe’s strength, laughter, and compassion will be forever remembered and deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A visitation for Orabe will be held Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Ourso Funeral Home, 13533 Airline Hwy, Gonzales, Louisiana 70737, followed by a celebration of life at 12:00 PM.