Mrs. Jewel Mae Bourgeois

Jewel Decareaux Bourgeois, passed away in the arms of her daughter Greta, on Wednesday, August 11, 2010, just days before her 79th birthday on August 15th. After a battle of debilitating chronic disease and pain, she found relief in heaven and is now with her loving husband of 53 years, Harold Lee Bourgeois, and her beloved grandchild Bradley Richard Bourgeois. She was a proud River Road native of Paulina, Louisiana, where she was known for her tenacious housekeeping and excellent cooking, particularly with regard to fresh vegetables and wild-life. She is survived by 5 children and their families, Tania and T-Rich Bourgeois, Greta Bourgeois Bayers and husband Robert, Albert Bourgeois and wife Liz, Bentley Bourgeois, and Sabrina Bourgeois Heltz and husband David. She also leaves behind 10 beloved Grandchildren: Amanda Cameron, Jason Bourgeois, Jessica Maus, Nicole Dufrene, Ricky Bourgeois, Casey Bourgeois, Elizabeth Bayers, Nicklaus Heltz, Allison Heltz¸ and Kayla Bourgeois; as well as a growing number of great-grandchildren: Kailey, Maddie, Zane, Jhace, Cayden, Brennan and Ethan. She will be missed by three wonderful sisters: Inez Decareaux Gaudin Lowry, June Decareaux Bailey and husband Ernest, and Barbara Decareaux Waller and husband Tom.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert Decareaux and Cecile Brignac Decareaux Poche; a Step-Father, Thomas Poche; sisters, Gladys Decareaux Louque, Pearl Decareaux Detillier, Alberta Decareaux, and brother and next door neighbor, Ronald Decareaux. She was loved dearly by a host of nieces and nephews.

In her health she was a member of the Catholic Daughters, a Eucharistic minister for St. Joseph Church in Paulina, and a Perpetual Adorer of the Holy Eucharist.

Visitation will be Friday, August 13th, at Alexander Funeral Home in Lutcher, from 6-9 pm. Visitation will resume on Saturday, August 14th, from 9-10:45 am, with Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 11 am in Paulina, LA with Father Mark Beard officiating.

Pallbearers will be Albert Bourgeois, Ben Bourgeois, T-Rich Bourgeois, Robert Bayers, Ricky Bourgeois, Jason Bourgeois, Casey Bourgeois and Nicklaus Heltz. The family expresses thanks for the numerous prayers and visitors she received during these last few weeks that helped her stay strong as she prepared for her passing; especially her sister June, who was at her side daily with encouragement and love. We also especially thank the angel that was sent to us during this difficult time, Felicity Hoffman Valencia, who she trusted to care for her. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race. I have kept the faith” 2 Timothy 4:7.

Arrangements under the direction of H.C. Alexander Funeral Home, Lutcher, LA.