Verna Lee Berthelot Aydell, 95, of French Settlement, LA, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Born on April 4, 1930. She lived a full life rooted in family, faith, hard work and community.
Verna began her career at French Settlement Elementary in 1978 as a French teacher’s aide until she retired in 1995. She became part of the Foster Grandparent program in 1998 until 2022 where everyone knew her as Maw Maw Verna, a title she proudly wore. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Ray Aydell; Infant daughter, Peggy Lynn; parents, Earl Sr. and Leonie Berthlelot; brothers, Earl Jr (June) and Edwin (Lee Ann) Berthelot; brother-in-law, Philip Granata Jr; and grand son-in-law, Ritchie Ledoux.
She is survived by her children, Danny Aydell (Lisa), Mary Beth Salassi (Michael), and Jeffrey Aydell (Dawn); grandchildren, Jeremy (Lori), Mandy (Landon), Jacob (Ashley), Brittni, Morgan, Brandi (Justin), and Brooke (Jeremy); 13 great-grandchildren, Peyton, Easton, Taylor, Jaxon, Logan, Jase, Parker, Lakyn, Blake, Colston, Carter, Brody and Kaden; and sisters, Erna Mae Granata and Edith Roland (Harry) along with numerous family members and a community that will never forget her laughter, her voice, and her unmistakable spirit. She was loved and cherished by all who knew her. Special thanks to our many caregivers: Lauren, Hope, Tracelyn, Kay, Samantha, Chantel, and Tamerra.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in French Settlement from 9:00 am until Mass at 11:00 am. Burial will follow in the St. Joseph Mausoleum.
