Vera Mae Becnel Mailhes

Vera Mae Becnel Mailhes passed peacefully on Friday, July 16, 2021, at the age of 92. Beloved wife of the late Albert Mailhes, she was preceded in death by her parents, William and Leocadie Martin Becnel, her brothers William “Mac” Becnel, Jr. and Lester Becnel, and niece, Bridget Becnel. She is survived by her sister-in-law, Elsie Mae Becnel, her nephews Chad Mailhes (Kathy) and Randy Becnel (Kathy), and numerous Godchildren. She was also a dear friend of the Cormier family. Affectionately called “Nanny” by those close to her, Vera was born September 21, 1928 in Naomi, La. Her family moved to Woodland shortly thereafter, beginning what she fondly recalled as an idyllic childhood. After graduating from Port Sulphur High, she earned her degree in Elementary Education from Dominican College. An outstanding educator and beloved first grade teacher, Vera taught for over thirty-eight years in both public and private schools in Plaquemines Parish. She often taught parents and their children. Nothing pleased her more than running into former students and learning where their lives had taken them. At the age of 48, she obtained her Masters in Education Administration from UNO. She went on to become the first female Director of a Vocational Technical school in Louisiana. She retired in 1988, and then found time to share her love of reading by tutoring students who needed help. A devout Catholic, Vera volunteered as a CCD teacher at St. Patrick’s for several years, and particularly enjoyed teaching the first communicants. She was a longtime member of AARP, and Delta Kappa Gamma, a professional honor society of women educators. An avid bridge player, she played in a weekly game with her dear cousins for over twenty years. She will be deeply missed by numerous friends and relatives, but especially by her four legged friend, and staunch protector, Louis. Special thanks to caregivers Marie Williams and Noletta Khan for their devoted and compassionate care. Additional thanks to Heart of Hospice and Dr. Patricia Gendusa for going above and beyond in their care for Vera. Also thanks to all those beloved friends who visited and brightened Vera's final days. Relatives, friends of the family, and former first graders are invited to attend the Funeral Mass on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Belle Chasse, LA at 11 AM. The viewing will be held from 9 AM until mass time. Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Port Sulphur, LA. In lieu of flowers, Masses or donations to St. Patrick’s Church are preferred.