Elia Ferraez Serigne entered this world on New Year’s Day 1928. Born to be the life of the party, she was the youngest daughter of the late Jacinto and Hernilda Ferraez. Sisters; Noemi, Betty, and Miriam doted on her as if she were their own baby doll. Commonly known as “the most beautiful girl on the island”, Elia danced her way into the heart of Jack Serigne for 60 blissful years. Together, they birthed the Krewe of Serigne, founded on the principles of brutal honesty and solidarity. Now reigning Krewe Captains include Jack Jr. (Bonnie), Richard Sr., Charmaine Clements (Richie), and Angèl. Their grandchildren serve as Maids and Dukes: Jack III, Stephanie, Jonathan, Richard Jr., Rebecca, Alison, David, Timothy, Christopher and Patrick, as well as a troupe of great-grandchildren.
On the rating scale of life, Elia lived at a 10. There was nary a club or committee in St. Bernard Parish of which she wasn’t a proud member or leader. She sang the lead in skits that she, herself wrote and produced. She scavenged every bead and doubloon that hit the ground at each parade she attended. Once in her presence, your heart had been touched by her elation and desire for joy. Elia passed away peacefully on October 18, 2017.
Her life will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at St. Bernard Memorial Funeral Home, 701 W. Virtue Street, Chalmette, LA with a funeral Mass beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow in St. Bernard Catholic Cemetery, St. Bernard, LA.
In lieu of flowers, beads and doubloons, please consider donating to the National Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org or St. Michael’s Special School, 1522 Chippewa Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 www.stmichaelspecialschool.com.
To Vista Shores Assisted Living, Mother Theresa said, “It is not how much you do, but how much love you put in the doing.” Thank you for your love.
To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit www.stbernardmemorial.com.
