Melvin E. "Shovel" Theriot

Melvin Edward "Shovel" Theriot, age 86, of Terrytown, LA passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024. He was the beloved husband of the late Gail Simoneaux Theriot. He was born in New Orleans, LA on September 3, 1937 to the late Henry Andrew Theriot Sr. and late Agnes Julian Theriot. He was raised in the Irish Channel of New Orleans and resided in Terrytown for the past 63 years. He was preceded in death by siblings Gerard Theriot, Agnes T. McConnell Barrett, Carol T. Knopp Keller, Henry "Fats" Theriot Jr., Patrick Theriot, and Shirley Mae Theriot.  He is survived by siblings: Eugene Theriot (Barbara) and Catherine T. Adam (Robert); four children: Michelle T. Robin (Michael), Tracey T. Smith (Tracy), Dori T. Plaisance (late Jacob), and Jordan Theriot; numerous nieces and nephews; three grandchildren: Shelby Smith, Zachary Smith, and Taylor Plaisance; and three great-grandchildren: Braxton, Whitney, and Wrenley.  

Shovel was a truck driver, bailiff, lifelong Teamster Local 270, and I.A.T.S.E. Local 478 member. He worked at Illinois Central Railroad, in the motion picture industry, and as a bailiff for JPSO for 15 years. He loved watching sporting events all of varieties, but his favorite was football. He was a member of TAK.

The family would like to thank Adele, Emi, and the staff at the Sanctuary at Passages Hospice for their compassion, comfort, and care.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Funeral Mass in the Chapel of MOTHE FUNERAL HOMES, 2100 Westbank Expressway, Harvey, LA on Monday, January 29, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. Interment Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Gretna, LA. Parlors will be open Sunday, January 28, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 10:00 a.m. until service time.