Mary Ellen Wattigney Durel

In Loving Memory of a Remarkable Mother

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mary Wattigney Durel, who departed from this world on August 26, 2023. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and strength that will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to have known her.

Born on August 6, 1942, Mary embarked on a life journey that was defined by her unwavering dedication to her family and the values she held dear. Throughout her life, she exuded warmth, kindness, and a remarkable sense of empathy that touched the lives of all who had the privilege of crossing her path.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Mary dedicated her life to nurturing and supporting her family. She was a source of strength to her loved ones, offering guidance, comfort, and a listening ear whenever it was needed.

Mary was a woman of many talents and interests. Her passion for sewing, ceramic art and numbers was contagious, and she found great joy in sharing her knowledge and experiences with others. Her long career as a full charge bookkeeper will forever stand as a testament to her dedication and determination. She retired from Hancock/Whitney bank as a Corporate Accountant at the age of 71 due to the restrictions of her illness, COPD.

Preceded in death by her loving husband, John P. Durel III, her parents, Alvin A. Wattigney and Mary O. (Mae) Wattigney and sister, Patricia W. (Pat) Curry. She is survived by sisters, Shirley W. Diket and Sharon Wattigney.

Her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched. Her legacy will be carried forward by her 3 children: Lisa Sansoni (Craig), Darren Durel (Lisa) and Sean Durel (Tracey), her 8 grandchildren: Regina Perry (CJ), Jarrett Sansoni, Trent Durel (Samantha), Austin Durel, Davan Durel, Hannah Durel, and Cassie Durel, her 7 great-grandchildren: Karsen, Jason, Wade, Brody, Dalton, Riley and Reagan, numerous nieces and nephews and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

As we gather to remember and honor Mary, let us celebrate the life she lived and the love she gave so freely. Though she may have left this world, her spirit will forever remain in our hearts, a guiding light during times of darkness and a reminder of the profound impact a single life can have.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral Mass at 11am on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expressway in Harvey La.  The visitation will be on Friday, September 1, beginning at 6pm and will resume Saturday, September 2, at 9am. The interment will immediately follow the Mass at Westlawn Cemetery in Gretna, La.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

In the tapestry of life, Mary wove threads of love, compassion, and strength that will continue to inspire generations to come. May she rest in eternal peace, knowing that she leaves behind a world made better by her presence.