Emily Ann (Coach Warren) Warren

Emily Ann Warren—lovingly known as Coach Warren to generations of softball players and students in Cecilia, Louisiana—passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at University Medical Center in New Orleans. She was 78.

She was born on December 14, 1946, in New Iberia to John and Lucy Warren and had a younger brother, John Cestia.

Although Ann never had children of her own, she embraced countless friends’ children as if they were hers. Her home, her heart, and her life’s work were filled with the young people she mentored, coached, and encouraged. To many, she was the adult who saw their potential before they ever saw it themselves.

Ann’s passion for teaching and coaching left footprints across classrooms and ballfields alike. She was especially proud of earning a Teacher of the Year award—an honor that reflected her dedication, excellence, and fierce belief in her students. Outside of work, she loved traveling all over the world, working in her yard, and doting on her dogs.

She is survived by her niece, Carolyn Wiley (Bryan), and nephew, John Warren (Justine), as well as their children, who adored their “Auntie Em”. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Candy (Mel Cowan). She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother.

A private burial will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a local public school near you in her honor.

The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories, and condolences online at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.