Sharyn "Shay" Taquino

Shay was born to Thelma Comeaux Summers and James Summers in New Orleans, Louisiana on March 16, 1945. For most of her career, she was a secretary for State Farm Insurance. She was a dedicated mother and avid traveler. Some have lovingly called her the “Blackjack Queen,” because she loved to play the card game and would play it whenever she got the opportunity.

Shay is survived by her daughter, Debra Taquino; son, James Taquino (Dana); grandchildren, Brandon Taquino, James Taquino Jr, and Sarah Taquino; her sisters, Corinne Pritchett and Geriann Mitchell (Dennis); sister-in-law, Beryl Taquino Booker; as well as her goddaughter, Erica Summers Snyder.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, Barry Taquino; son, Barry Taquino Jr; parents, James and Thelma Summers; and her brothers, Tommy, Keith, and Kerry Summers.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Shay’s services on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd New Orleans, LA 70124. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM until the funeral service in the chapel at 1:00 PM. The service will be presided over by Father Austin Barr. Interment to follow at Greenwood Cemetery, 5190 Canal Blvd New Orleans, LA 70124. Attendees are invited to a repast at Shay's house afterward.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests for donations to be made in her honor to Covenant House or Second Harvest Food Bank.