Mary Howe Derbes

Mary Howe Derbes was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on June 18, 1942. She attended Academy of the Sacred Heart and then Maryville University in Saint Louis, Missouri, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in English and Math. She obtained a master’s degree in Literature from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia.

After earning her master's degree, Mary returned to New Orleans and taught at the Academy of the Sacred Heart. She later spent many years in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

In 1988, Mary moved to Atlanta and began a new career as a computer programmer for SunTrust Bank. Later in her career she was chosen to be a member of the team that developed the bank’s first websites.

Mary was an active member of her church parish everywhere she lived. Her faith was deeply meaningful to her, and she was an inspiration to those around her.

Art was one of her passions. She was a gifted painter. Her work was exhibited at the Atlanta Artists Center and elsewhere throughout Georgia. She also served as a member of the Atlanta Artists Center’s Board of Directors. Mary also worked in collage and was a member of the Atlanta Collage Society.

Mary Howe Derbes is survived by her sister, Dorothy Howe Brooks (Reg Brooks), her children, Monica Derbes Gibson and Joseph Derbes, and her grandson, Max Gibson. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Marianne Louise Derbes, and brother, Jim Howe.

An interment ceremony will take place on December 29, 2026, at Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.