Eloise Orr Bourgeois

Eloise Orr Bourgeois, affectionately known as “Sisty,” passed away on August 31, 2026. Known for her sharp intellect, brilliant wit, and refreshing honesty, she was a treasured presence to everyone who knew her.

Born on October 9, 1950, Eloise grew up in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She graduated from R.J. Reynolds High School and earned her degree in Fine Arts from the University of Georgia. She went on to share her passion for creativity as art teacher in Jefferson Parish public schools for 20 years, inspiring countless students.

A woman of deep faith, Eloise was a lifelong Episcopalian and devoted member of St. Martin's Episcopal Church. She served faithfully on the Altar Guild, as a Stephen Minister alongside her husband, and as a leader of an adult christian formation program known as the Disciples of Christ in Community (DOCC). Driven by a passion to help others find peace and healing, she was notably one of the few women to lead Ignatian Spirituality Project (ISP) retreats for women of Bridge House at Manresa House of Retreats.

Her deep spirituality and artistic gifts uniquely converged in her stunning religious icon paintings, which remain a lasting testament to her faith, talent, and creative soul.

Above all, Eloise's greatest masterpiece was her family. She shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Wayne Bourgeois, building a life centered on love, devotion, and faith. She was the cornerstone of her family, offering endless love, quiet strength, unwavering encouragement, and deep care to everyone around her.

Eloise was preceded in death by her parents, Lynn Huie Orr and Eloise Bassett Orr; and her brothers, Lynn Huie Orr, Jr. and William “Bill” Lyman Orr.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Wayne Bourgeois; her brother, Wayne Keith Orr (Martha); her children, Barbara Ormsby (Geoffrey), Ridge Bourgeois (Gretchen), and Catherine Nemeth (Jonathan); and her six cherished grandchildren, Gavin, Octavie, Dylan, Cade, Joshua, and Hudson. She will also be deeply missed by her extended family, friends, former students, and fellow parishioners.

Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the students she inspired, the faith she shared, and the beauty she created. Her life was marked by grace, creativity, service, and love, and her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. David Barrington for his compassionate care, prayers, and steadfast support throughout Eloise's treatment.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at St. Martin's Episcopal Church, 2216 Metairie Road, Metairie, Louisiana. A funeral service celebrating Eloise's life will follow at 12:00 p.m.