Louise was born in Nicholls, Georgia, and later made Jacksonville, Florida, her home, where she lived for 66 years.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Vernon, and her beloved son, Tommy Leon.
Louise is survived by her daughters, Mary Sue Sparkman and Alexis Gasparovich; her grandchildren, Christy Sutton (Scott), Brian McCarty, Megan McCarty Meacham (Blake), and Joseph Burke; and her great-grandchildren, Maddox Sutton, Reed Sutton, Carson Sutton, Priscilla Meacham, and Arielle Meacham.
Sue faithfully cared for Louise and was by her side throughout her later years, making sure that her needs were met and that she was never alone in facing life’s challenges. Her family is deeply grateful for the care and devotion she gave her mother.
Louise was a simple and strong-willed woman. She was resourceful, independent, and rarely forgot a birthday. She enjoyed sitting in her chair talking with loved ones, shopping, spending time with family and friends, and going out for a good meal. Outback Steakhouse was one of her favorite places to eat.
For the last three years of her life, Louise lived in a memory care community, where she made friends and enjoyed the company of the residents and staff. She held onto her sense of humor and her determined spirit. When asked how she was doing, she often replied, “I’m pretty good for an old lady.”
The family is especially grateful to the staff at Brookdale Senior Living for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion they showed Louise. Their support brought comfort to Louise and peace of mind to her family.
Louise will be remembered for her strength, humor, optimism, resourcefulness, and the many years of memories she shared with those who knew her.
Visitation will be held at Hardage-Giddens, Riverside Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205, US, on August 1, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, followed by a Funeral Service at the same location at 12:00 PM. A Committal Service will immediately follow the funeral at Riverside Memorial Park, 7242 Normandy Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32205.
