Merline Chifici Whatley

Merline Chifici Whatley entered eternal rest on Monday, April 13, 2026, at the age of 89. Beloved wife of the late Gerald Bonvillian, Sr. by first marriage and the late Clyde Whatley by second marriage. Daughter of the late Anthony Chifici and the late Christine B. Chifici. Loving and devoted mother of Jamie B. Lepine (Marcel), Gerald Bonvillian, Jr., Don Bonvillian, Sr., Mark Bonvillian, Sr. and Tina Bonvillian. She is survived by 8 Grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren and 4 Great Great Grandchildren. Merline is preceded in death by her Granddaughters, the late Michelle Dormain and Misty Poyadou. She is the sister of Irene Chifici and the late Virginia (Louis) Bengert, Tanya (Owen) Fraisse, Cathy Chifici and Anthony Chifici. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews. Merline was born and raised in Algiers, Louisiana. She loved music, dancing and singing; but most of all, she loved her family. She was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren meant the world to her. Merline worked for many years at Maison Blanche until she moved to Mississippi. She then worked for a nursing facility until she retired at the age of 70. She was an animal lover. At any given time, she would have 15 dogs and cats. Merline will be greatly missed by all. The family would like to thank Notre Dame Hospice and St. Anthony Nursing Home for their compassion during Merline’s stay. Family and friends are invited to attend the Visitation at MOTHE FUNERAL HOME, 2100 Westbank Expressway, Harvey, Louisiana on Friday, April 24, 2026, beginning at 9AM until 11AM. A Funeral Mass will be held at the funeral home on Friday at 11AM. Interment will be in Restlawn Park Cemetery, Highway 90, Avondale, Louisiana. The family invites you to share thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at mothefunerals.com.