A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, November 16, 2015 at 11:00 am at St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church for Mary Louise Suire Gilbert, 81, who entered eternal rest surrounded by her loved ones November 12, 2015. Father Gary Schexnayder, pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton, will conduct the funeral services. Jodi Bollich, organist and soloist, will perform "Ave Maria", "How Great Thou Art", "Old, Rugged Cross", and "No More Tears". Lectors will be Jay Suire and Gayle Gilbert; gift bearers, Amanda Patin and Elizabeth Melancon. Interment will follow the mass in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.
She leaves behind the love of her life John; three children, Ronnie (Laura), Mona (Greg), and Cheryl (Kim); her siblings, Sandra (John), Kathy (Robert), Wilson (Carol), Anthony (Charlotte), Larry (Jessica), and Dan (Ann); six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
From their first dance in 1951 at Magnon's in Crowley and throughout the 63 years they were together, her love for John and dancing was obvious. When dancing became too difficult, she would listen to French music to reminisce.
Mary was a six year cancer survivor. She instilled in her children faith, independence and family values as the cornerstones of their lives. From the time they were born to the time they each said "until we meet again, Mom," her children loved and cherished her.
She always loved and shared great laughter with her grandchildren Zachary (Dawn), Amanda (Kyle), Elizabeth (T J), Matthew, Nate, and Trace; and her great-grandchildren Zachary Jr, Evan, Miles, Mason, Emma and Joshua. She enjoyed the time spent with each of them.
She was preceded in death by her parents Anthony Suire and Rita Dore Suire; her daughter Donna; her two sisters Dorothy and Joy, and one brother Richard.
Pallbearers will be Zachary Gilbert Sr., Matthew Wiltz, Kyle Patin, T.J. Melancon, Kenny "Boo" Trahan, and Russell Richard. Honorary pallbearers will be Nate Gilbert, Trace Gilbert, Zachary Gilbert and Evan Melancon.
Visiting hours will be observed at Walters Funeral Home on Sunday, November 15, 2015 from 2:00-9:00 pm, and continue Monday morning from 8:00 am until time of services. A rosary will be prayed by Deacon Michael Morrison at 7:00 pm Sunday evening.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Miles Perret Center, PO Box 80763, Lafayette, LA 70598.
"Maw Maw we promise to keep socks on your lil Angels."