Born on November 28, 1927, Marie Louise lived a long and fun-filled life before peacefully departing the earth on April 16, 2021. A lifelong New Orleanian, Marie Louise was always proud of her public education at R.M. Lusher elementary and Sophie B. Wright high school, where she met many of her dearest friends. She was equally proud of her time at Newcomb College, remaining a steadfast Tulane athletics fan in the face of the many LSU graduates and fans in her life.
Widowed far too young at age 41, Marie Louise shepherded five phenomenal children through high school and college and into successful adulthood. Simultaneously, she blazed a trail as a woman business owner at the helm of Crane Shoes, which she owned and operated for over 40 years and where she served hundreds of local families.
Not wanting to burden others with the trouble of her double name, Marie Louise was known to those closest to her as Mawee, Awee, or Mama. Mawee was best known for hosting excellent parties and napkin fights, telling dazzling stories (if she could finish them before succumbing to uncontrolled laughter), meeting “the nicest people” in the smoking room, and storing all important items on the “female table,” situated across from the mail table. She was the supreme matriarch, giving unconditional love to those in her family and those close enough to be considered family. She was an enthusiastic member of the Liquid Lunch Bunch (and co-founder), Southern Yacht Club, and the infamous Kogel’s Korner (her Mardi Gras HQ). While she was a world traveler, her favorite vacation was the annual family beach trips to Florida’s Gulf Coast, where she always enjoyed a highball (or two) at sunset, “the loveliest part of the day.”
Marie Louise was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mills Judson “Judda” Crane; her parents, Edwin August “Dee” and Elizabeth Magruder “Biche” Socola; brother Edward M. “King” Socola; grandson, John Craft Crane; and countless dear friends and acquaintances. She is survived by her tall and gracious sister Evelyn “Evie” Socola Gordon and her wonderful family; children Susan Sherwood, James Judson (Sharon), Jeanie Cian (Louis), David (Cilla), and Tommy; 9 adoring grandchildren; and 10 raucous great-grands. The seeds of her spirit live on in all of us.
The Crane family will always be grateful for the compassionate care of our dear Awee throughout this lengthy pandemic by the staff of Vista Shores Assisted Living facility, and for the care and friendship of Ethel Keller.
Per Awee’s request, memorial service will be private. In lieu of flowers, please enjoy a glass of bourbon with a splash of water, Awee’s favorite drink.
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