Josephine Gunter Gurtner, age 92, passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Born in New Brockton, Alabama and lived in Kenner, LA. She was a loving wife of Peter for 60-plus years; survived by daughters Susan Culver (Charlie), and Catherine “Joanne” Loyacono; preceded in death by two sons, Richard and Ronald Smythe, a daughter, Debra Smythe and a grandson, Rickie Smythe. Left to cherish her memory are grandchildren: Dorey Mejia (Arturo), Loryn Matthews (Joseph), Kathy Haley (Trampas), Angela DeNicolo (Mark), Tami Dietrich (Damien), Judith Smythe (Jason), Jennifer Estopinal (Todd), Jessica Loyacono (Joe); great-grandchildren: Alexandra, Austin, Alyssa, Caroline, Samuel, Andrew, Ava, Greg, Chris, Chase, Anthony, Ayden, Josie, Jason, Dawson, and Amelia in addition to friends, Lucille Brehm (Clarence) and Colleen Lumpkin (Joshua).
A member of Williams Boulevard Baptist Church, she sang in the choir and taught Sunday School. An excellent cook, she provided for events or others in need and was known for gumbo and pound cake. Josie loved reading and gardening and growing flowers or vegetables. Sewing for herself, children, and grandchildren brought her joy. She blessed others with crocheted blankets, and often played table games and jigsaw puzzles. Debbie and then Dorey's family next door was a comfort, providing laughter and love. Being kind, loving, and compassionate, she enjoyed a blessed life and will be missed tremendously by all. Above all, she loved Jesus whose arms hold her now.
The family would like to send a special thank you to Interim Hospice for providing the most excellent and
compassionate care during this journey.
To celebrate her life, Rev. Earl Hodges of Olive Branch Ministries will officiate a Memorial Service at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd. in Metairie, LA on Thursday, May 9, 2024. Visitation will be held from 9:30 am - 11:30 am followed by the service. Interment will take place in Lake Lawn Park Mausoleum in New Orleans, LA. The family requests that Josie's favorite color, light or baby blue, be worn in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Disabled American Veterans (www.DAV.org).
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LeitzEaganFuneralHome.com.
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