Gwendolyn Chaplain Windhorst

Gwendolyn “Gwen” Chaplain Windhorst passed peacefully on June 24, 2026 with her hand held by her son, Judge Stephen J. “Steve” Windhorst.

Gwen was born in New Orleans on Dec. 28, 1934, beloved daughter of the late Frederick Chaplain and Catherine Schmitt Chaplain. She is survived by her loving and devoted son, Steve, and by his loving partner of many years, Wilma Heaton, who diligently helped him care for her and who she loved as a daughter; and by Steve’s sister, Judith Windhorst (Chip Cahill); and by her cousin, Gail LeNormand Heine (Ted), all of whom she was very fond.

She grew up during the depression near the Irish Channel and was a beautiful child who sang like an angel on a weekly radio program originating from Schram Studios in New Orleans. She graduated Redemptorist High School with honors in 1952, and married the late Fritz H. Windhorst in 1954. After divorce in 1961, she moved with her young son to Terrytown in 1965, where she built a new home for him and also one for her parents, and resided for 61 years. She retired as Executive Admin. Asst. from West Jefferson Medical Center in 2003.

Gwen was a devout Catholic of Christ the King Church and raised her son in love and service. She was a superb writer and taught him to write with clarity and proper English and grammar. She reviewed his papers throughout college and law school, and he credits her for the fundamentals he continues to rely on in his legal profession.

Gwen loved to travel including trips to Greece, Israel, and Egypt, where she rode a camel. She cherished the trips with her son from San Francisco to New York, London, and Paris.

In her last years she needed much care and Steve received many blessings spending time and taking care of her. She leaves this world in peace to be with our Heavenly Father.

Visitation: Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 West Bank Expy., in Harvey, LA on Tues. July 7, 2026 at 4:30 PM, followed by Mass at 6:30 PM. Burial will be held privately at West Lawn South Cemetery.