Ernestine Theriot

Ernestine Theriot, a woman of unwavering faith, deep compassion, quiet strength, and enduring grace, was born on February 23, 1939, in Houma, Louisiana, to the late John Wallace Theriot and Beatrice Miller Theriot. One of eight children, she learned early the values of family, resilience, and unconditional love—principles that guided her throughout her life.

At a young age, Ernestine accepted Christ and was baptized in the river, as was customary during that time, laying a strong spiritual foundation that would shape her journey. She later united with Canaan Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of Rev. Lonza Val Adams, where she remained a devoted member until her health began to decline.

Ernestine received her early education at Terrebonne High School. In her teenage years, she was crowned Queen of Thibodaux, an honor that reflected not only her beauty and grace but also her warmth, dignity, and gentle spirit, which left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She was united in holy matrimony to Thomas Theriot Sr., and from their union came five loving children: Pauline Theriot, Thomas Theriot Jr., Keith Theriot, Tremaine Theriot, and Kevin Theriot. Before embracing her true calling as a mother and homemaker, Ernestine worked as a welder, a testament to her strength, determination, and resilience. She later devoted herself fully to nurturing her family, filling her home with warmth, stability, and unwavering love.

Raised on Jennings Lane in Houma, Louisiana, Ernestine relocated to Houston, Texas, in the 1960s, where she raised her five children and later welcomed her baby boy, Terrell Theriot, with Albert Butler. She established deep roots in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward community, where she became a pillar of love and support.

Ernestine was more than a mother to her own children—she was a mother, grandmother, protector, and guiding light to many. She opened her home and her heart without hesitation, feeding neighborhood children, offering shelter, wisdom, and unconditional love. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her presence provided comfort and safety to all who entered her space. Fiercely loyal, she protected her children and grandchildren with unshakable devotion.

A proud and loving grandmother, Ernestine found immense joy in watching her family grow across generations. She cherished time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, offering warm hugs, firm love when necessary, and gentle wisdom rooted in lived experience. Her prayers, laughter, and watchful eyes were constant in their lives.

In her leisure time, Ernestine enjoyed classic westerns such as Gunsmoke and Bonanza, along with Wheel of Fortune, The Price Is Right, and The Young and the Restless—and everyone knew not to disturb her at 11:00 a.m. on weekdays. She loved playing card games like Pitty Pat, Tunk, and Spades, and often delighted in occasional trips to the casino. Through every season of life, she carried herself with humility, endurance, and grace, never complaining and always pressing forward.

On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Ernestine peacefully transitioned from labor to reward. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Theriot Sr.; her parents, John and Beatrice Theriot; her sisters, Riffie Castle (Curvin), Elenora Bland (Isadore), Rose Hampton (Allen), and Winnie Theriot Holly; her brothers, Allen Theriot and David Jones; her brother-in-law, Sherman Barabin; her beloved children, Pauline Theriot, Keith Theriot, and Terrell Theriot; and her cherished grandchildren, Jawan Theriot and Marlo Theriot II.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory her devoted children: Thomas Theriot Jr., Tremaine Theriot, and Kevin Theriot; her sister, Charlotte Barabin of Houma; her brother, Wallace Theriot (Wilberine) of Houma; twelve grandchildren—Marlo Theriot Sr. (Shaquita), Ieshea Theriot, Tamara Theriot, LaToya Johnson, Rory Jones (Hattie), Chevron Theriot, Terrell Bowdry, Thomas Lancelin, Kymberly Theriot, Cleveland McGuire Jr., Gianni McGuire, and Thomas Theriot II; sixteen great-grandchildren—Cam’Ron Theriot, Kiana Miller, Tierra Chatman, Jazmyne Smith, Jamikal Smith, Jadore Theriot, Tori Theriot, Ashton Edwards, Marlo Theriot Jr., Kristian Johnson, Kenneth Martins III, Khalil Martins, Keon Lancelin, Amir McGuire, Kareem Martins, Kali Lancelin, and Titus Theriot; and three great-great-grandchildren—Ka’ceon Miller, Eymer Smith, and Sky’Lynn Theriot.

She also leaves her beloved nephew, Kala (Sandra), whom she embraced as a son; her sister-in-love, Ruth Smith; her sons-in-love, Marcus Barton, Cleveland McGuire Sr., and Jaime Gonzalez; her grandsons-in-love, Kendrick Miller and Henry London; her godson, Louis Castle; her goddaughter, Clara Barabin; her stepchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were richly blessed by knowing her.

Ernestine Theriot’s life was a testimony of love, and her enduring legacy lives on through the generations she nurtured and the many lives touched by her kindness.