Mothe Funeral Homes, LLC

12/29/2025

Dave Kumbi

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12/19/2025

Margaret Kessner Conner Young

Margaret Kessner Conner Young, born September 9th, 1942, in Tell City, IN passed peacefully on September 30th, 2025, in New Orleans, LA, of natural causes. She is survived by her son, Jeffery from marriage to Thad Conner, and his wife Dana Conner and their sons Zach and Nick, and their families. She is also survived by her daughter, Marian Young from her marriage to Doug Young, and her husband Michael Jacobson, Jr. and their daughters Veronica and Samantha, and their families. Margaret is also survived by her six younger sisters: Joan Austin, Jean Kessner, Janice Davies, Marsha Fiscus, Melissa Rynkiewich, and Melitta Kessner. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Dot Ziegelgruber Kessner, Thad Conner, and Doug Young.

Before moving to New Orleans, Margaret resided in Tell City and Grandview, IN. She worked briefly at General Electric where she was recognized for her suggestions for improving efficiency at General Electric. The greater part of Margaret's career was in Real Estate and Real Estate Appraisal in New Orleans. She maintained her Louisiana Realtor Brokers License and her General Appraiser Certification License. In the last part of her career, she was appointed by the Governor of Louisiana to the Board of Real Estate Appraisers. This was a great honor, and Margaret enjoyed every moment. She had a brilliant way of looking at appraisal problems and found them extremely exciting to solve. She loved her work. Margaret also felt it was her obligation and responsibility to give back to the community by helping others, and for several years she volunteered her time on weekends to teach classes for first-time home buyers about resources to help have the American dream of owning their own home.

Margaret’s lasting words as she grew weary were that life seems long in years, but it is short in time. Go to the beach. See the show. Take the vacation. And be nice to yourself.

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12/12/2025

Arthur John Witherup

Arthur was born on November 8, 1947 in New Orleans and lived most of his life in the Algiers Point neighborhood. He attended Belleville Elementary and graduated from Martin Behrman Junior Senior High School in 1967. After joining the Army he was trained as a combat medic and was attached to a unit of the 82nd Airborne division engaged in action in South Vietnam. While rendering aid under fire, he was seriously wounded. Following an extensive recovery he was later trained in meteorology and assigned to Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

Upon discharge and more treatment, Arthur attended Tulane University and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business. For a brief while he worked in the film industry locally and would later often remark that it was the most fun he had on any job. Arthur also attended the Digital Computer school and eventually worked in various capacities in that field. He also studied photography and worked at it most of his life.

On a quiet afternoon Arthur was out for a stroll in the lovely park near the Holy Name of Mary Church in Algiers with his dear friend and companion Judy Stringer, when an assailant suddenly approached them and shot him in the face then snatching his friend’s purse. After an extensive recovery he went back to work, but was never quite the same. Later after another threatening incident, he moved to Mandeville, LA living there for a number of years until hurricane Ida damaged his apartment complex. Also suffering a head injury during the evacuation, both events resulted in his move to the Veterans Home.

Arthur loved New Orleans and especially Algiers Point. He was very civic-minded. For years he would volunteer as a worker at the polls during elections in Mandeville. He was very involved with Veterans’ issues and belonged to or supported numerous organizations, including the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Disabled American Veterans, and various Purple Heart Groups among others. He also briefly served as Northshore Commander and Life Member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart USA 741.

Arthur was the son of Sanders Witherup and Dorothy Wahl Witherup, both now deceased. He is survived by a brother Jared T. Witherup; a sister Deborah Witherup Wactor; three nieces Wendy Mores, Brenda, and Jenny Norris, and her husband Russell Norris, Jr.; a nephew Drake; and many cousins.

Arthur had a great sense of humor demonstrated by his frequent clever quips. He really missed his friends at the Park Lane Apartments, especially the owner Inge Japsen, who cared for his property during the move.

The family would like to thank all those who tended to his medical requirements over the many years as well as to the friends he made at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Home during his stay.

Arthur was the joy and the humor of our family! He was 78.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Mothe Funeral Home, 1300 Vallette St, Algiers, LA, on Friday, December 19, 2025, from 9 AM to 11 AM. The service will start at 11 AM followed by interment immediately after at McDonoghville Cemetery, 520 Hancock St, Gretna, LA.

Family and friends are invited to share condolences and memories by visiting her memorial page at www.mothefunerals.com.

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12/05/2025

Elsie Ann Raine

Elsie Ann “Elise” Raine, born in New Orleans, LA, on February 14, 1933, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at the age of 92. Elise was a life-long resident of New Orleans.

She was the daughter of the late Leroy LaCour and the late Ruth LaCour. Loving wife of the late Stafford J. Raine. Loving mother of Paul Raine (Drew Landis), Barry Raine (Rob Baumgartner), and the late Andrea L. Raine. She was predeceased by her brothers Richard LaCour, Daniel LaCour and by her sister Patsy Bertucci. She is survived by several nieces and nephews.

Although her given name was Elsie, she preferred the sound of Elise. Always open to new ideas and ways of being, shortly after turning 50, she began using the name “Elise” instead.

She was especially fond of young children and animals, especially the numerous dogs & cats she raised and doted on over several decades. She once had an eccentric black cat named Greta, named for the elusive actress, who only made occasional cameos for food and died at the age of 23.

She was a fierce proponent of environmental protection and was deeply troubled by increasing pollution levels, contaminated land and water, and the destruction of the planet.

Elise loved anything made of chocolate, her garden, especially the roses and hibiscus, and live theater.

Thanks to her close friend, Felicia, who introduced her to live theater in her 20s, she developed a great love of live theater and attended many local New Orleans productions as well as many Broadway plays. A road trip she took in the mid-1950s to New York City ignited her deep love of that city, to which she returned countless times over the next several decades.

She enjoyed a long life enriched by the presence of many friends. Over the years, she was known for her stellar seafood gumbo, crawfish étouffée, a wicked carrot cake, and legendary Christmas fudge among many other delicacies. Once she started traveling, there was no stopping her. She counted among her favorite places Venice, Italy, Southern California, Vermont, Key West, and southwestern France, which she discovered late in life was the birthplace of her French ancestors.

In her final years, she loved and cherished time with her two sons, some close friends, and especially her devoted caregiver and friend, Hope, who lovingly assisted her and cared for her through the last several years of her life.

Her funeral services are pending. Please check back for more updated information.

Mothe Funeral Home has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. The family kindly invites you to share thoughts, fondest memories, and condolences online at www.MotheFunerals.com.

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11/24/2025

Hung Cao Le

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11/12/2025

Berchmans Jennings Perez Jr.

Berchmans Jennings "B. J." Perez, Jr., 96, of Covington, La., passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 9, 2025 at his residence with family by his side. He was born in New Orleans, La, raised in Buras and Belle Chasse, La, and was a resident of Covington, La. for the past 8 years. B. J. graduated from Belle Chasse High School and attended Southwest Louisiana Institute, now the University of Louisiana in Lafayette. He worked for the Plaquemines Parish Commission Council for 30 years, retiring as the Superintendent of Beautification and Road Maintenance. He was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Belle Chasse and St. Patrick's Catholic Church in New Orleans, where he served many years as an usher. B. J. also was a member of the Lafitte Yacht Club, the Choctaw Carnival Club, and the Belle Chasse Lions Club where he served in various official roles, including President. He enjoyed gardening and was a big fan of LSU and Saints football.

B. J. was preceded in death by his parents, Berchmans Sr and Ethel Perez, his brothers Gerald Sr and Robert, his daughter-in-law Denise, and grandson Andrew.

He is survived by his wife of over 73 years, Viola Perez of Covington, La, son Berchmans "Berch" Perez III, daughter Karen Perez Murphy and son-in-law Patrick, grandsons Carl Hastings and wife Kristy, Robert Perez II and wife Monica, and his 4 great-grandchildren, Abbeygale, Payton, Parker, and Theodore, along with 8 nephews, a niece, and many cousins and friends.

The family will receive friends and family on Friday, November 14, 2025 at 9:00 AM with a Memorial Mass at 11:00 AM at Mothe Funeral Home, 1330 Vallette Street, Algiers, La, 70114. Internment will take place following the mass at the McDonogh Cemetery in Gretna, La.

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11/12/2025

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10/16/2025

Capt. Louis M. "Toby" Wattigney, Jr.

Captain Louis M. “Toby” Wattigney Jr., a devoted leader, family member, and friend, whose steady presence anchored both his family and community, passed away on Sunday evening, October 12, 2025, at age 67. While on a trip to his hunting camp in Mississippi—a place he loved dearly, he found eternal peace and joy surrounded by nature.

Born on November 5, 1957, Toby was the son of Louis M. Wattigney Sr. and Helena Blanchard Wattigney. A native of New Orleans and a resident of Belle Chasse for 27 years, he was a proud graduate of O. Perry Walker High School and attended the University of New Orleans (UNO) before beginning his maritime career with his brother, William Louis Wattigney Jr., at Crescent Towing, where he served as a captain for 18 years.

In 1976, Toby and his brother were at the helm of the first tugboat to arrive at the scene of the Luling–Destrehan Ferry Disaster, when a tanker collided with a passenger ferry on the Mississippi River. Together, they helped rescue one of the few survivors in a collision that claimed 78 lives and remains the deadliest ferry disaster in U.S. history. Toby went on to serve as a pilot with the New Orleans–Baton Rouge Steamship Pilots Association (NOBRA) for more than 30 years, later becoming president, where he dedicated his career to ensuring the safe navigation of the Mississippi River and the protection of those who live and work along its banks.

During his tenure as president, Toby served in leadership and advisory roles across Louisiana’s maritime community, including with NOBRA’s Board of Examiners and Board of Directors, the American Pilots Association, Big River Coalition, Louisiana Pilotage Fee Commission, Maritime Navigation Safety Association (MNSA), New Orleans Board of Trade, Propeller Club of the U.S. Port of New Orleans, University of Louisiana Maritime Academy Advisory Council, Open Waters Louisiana, and the World Trade Center Transportation Committee. He also chaired Governor Jeff Landry’s Task Force on Navigation and Safety within the Louisiana Ports, Waterways, and Investment Commission. Outside of his work on the river, Toby was a dedicated boxing coach, passionate about mentoring and inspiring young athletes. Whether guiding a pilot or a boxer, he was known for his steady resolve, kind spirit, and unwavering support for those around him.

Faith was at the core of Toby’s life and work. In 2024, he helped organize and orchestrate the inaugural Fête-Dieu du Mississippi, a Eucharistic procession downriver from Baton Rouge to New Orleans, honoring the souls lost in river tragedies. Working alongside Rev. Michael Champagne at the suggestion of now-Governor Jeff Landry, he guided vessels in blessing the same waters he had navigated for decades. His leadership reflected his belief that faith and duty are interconnected—that the river is not only a channel of commerce but also a living symbol of God’s presence and the lifeblood of Louisiana.

For Toby, faith was not only personal but also an inheritance. One of the most meaningful traditions he kept alive was the Nine Churches Walk, an annual Good Friday journey through New Orleans that began in 1941, when his grandmother started the pilgrimage after her three sons were drafted into World War II as a way to pray for their safe return. Each year, Toby made sure the walk continued, not just as a family tradition but as a gathering of community and shared faith.

Beyond work and worship, Toby was a proud Pappy to his intelligent and beautiful granddaughter, Grace, whom he adored. He found comfort outdoors and was overjoyed to share his love of hunting and fishing with his son, Maurice, and his great-nephews, Peter and Brandon. He also cherished his time with his wife of 34 years, Cathy, in Orange Beach—one of the few places where he could truly unwind.

Toby was preceded in death by his parents, Louis M. Wattigney Sr. and Helena Blanchard Wattigney, as well as his nephew, William Louis Wattigney Jr. He is survived by his wife, Catherine Kloor Wattigney; his son, Louis “Maurice” Wattigney; his granddaughter, Grace Wattigney; his brother, William Louis Wattigney Sr.; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, countless friends and fellow pilots who became family over the years.

Captain Wattigney’s legacy flows through the people he loved and the river he served. The lessons he shared and the example he set live on in the family, friends, and fellow pilots who knew him best, which act as a lasting reflection of his steadiness, generosity, love, and strength.

Memorial donations can be made in Toby’s honor to the Manresa House of Retreats (5858 LA-44, Convent, LA 70723) or the Father Seelos Center (919 Josephine St., New Orleans, LA 70130), reflecting his lifelong devotion to faith, family, and service.

Relatives and Friends of the Family are invited to attend the Visitation on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Mothe Funeral Home, 1300 Vallette St., New Orleans, LA, from 5 PM until 10 PM. Visitation will resume on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church, 400 Verret St., New Orleans, LA, from 9:30 AM until the Funeral Mass time at 1 PM. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow the Funeral Mass at The Croatian House, 220 Croatian Way, Belle Chasse, LA.

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10/02/2025

Walter "Hoppy" J. Frisch, Sr.

Walter “Hoppy” J. Frisch, 75 years old of Algiers, LA passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025. He was born in New Orleans, LA to the late Lloyd Frisch, Sr. and Mary Ferrari Frisch on January 4, 1950. He is survived by his beloved high school sweetheart and wife Kathy, son Walter J. Frisch, Jr., (Ellen), grandchildren Charlotte, Walter J. Frisch, III, son Jason Frisch (April), grandchildren Nathaniel, Lucy, Holly, Arianna and Jasmine, daughter Stephanie Sellers (Sean), grandchildren Thomas, and Patrick. He was preceded in death by his siblings Lloyd, Jr., Bonnie Valdes, Pete, his twin brother and Billy. Hoppy has many nieces, nephews, sisters and brothers in law, and a multitude of friends. He graduated from Martin Behrman high school in 1968.

Hoppy was a religious, and spiritual man who loved God, adored his wife and always put his children first. He was welcoming, generous, entertaining, and loved by many. He especially loved his grandkids, and thrived on making people happy. He would literally give you the shirt off his back if you needed one. He told great jokes and you always had a smile on your face after an interaction with him.

Hoppy was a New Orleans Firefighter for over 36 years and served as Captain until he retired. He owned Frisch Brother signs in New Orleans where he was a an artist extraordinaire, a musician of many instruments, a golf enthusiast, a great cook, and a great mentor and friend.

As a painter, Hoppy hand lettered signs for many people, businesses, and occasions. For many years, he painted the floats and the signs for Blaine Kern and most of the great Mardi Gras Krewes such as Rex, and Bacchus, to name a few. They utilized Hoppy’s talent to let the massive crowds know what each float’s theme was.

Hoppy left a mark on the city he grew up in. Murals and signs he painted still adorn various buildings in Old Algiers.

If you knew Hoppy, you had the fortune of knowing one of the best New Orleans had to offer. Truly unique and easy to love, Hoppy Frisch’s loss will affect countless people.

Visitation will start at 9:00am on Tuesday 10/7 at Holy Name of Mary church in Algiers Point at 500 Eliza St. The service starts at 11:00am.

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09/30/2025

Kathy June Langenstein Berlin

“When pain is over, the remembrance of it often becomes a pleasure.” — Jane Austen

Kathy June (Langenstein) Berlin August 14, 1949 – September 21, 2025

Kathy June (Langenstein) Berlin, 76, of Reserve, Louisiana, passed away on September 21, 2025, following a short illness.

Kathy was born on August 14, 1949, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to June (Hancock) Langenstein and Karl Monroe Langenstein. She graduated from F.T. Nicholls High School and later attended Delgado Community College, where she earned her Associate’s degree in 1985. She was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa and went on to receive her Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Loyola University, graduating on December 31, 1989.

One of Kathy’s proudest accomplishments was her military service. She enlisted in the U.S. Army on September 24, 1974, and was stationed at Fort Polk. She transferred to the Louisiana National Guard in January 1976, was promoted to Warrant Officer 1 in 1983, and served with distinction, earning several commendations for her service. Kathy ultimately achieved the rank of Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2) in 1987—a rare accomplishment for a woman at the time.

Kathy went on to build a successful career as a CPA, but later found a way to merge her love of writing with her professional expertise by authoring accounting textbooks.

Anyone who knew Kathy knew how much she loved her pride and joy—Nazgul, her Mustang. She adored her manual transmission muscle car: the roar of the engine, the feel of the road, and the approving nods and conversations with fellow Mustang enthusiasts in parking lots. Driving wasn’t just a way to get somewhere for her—it was joy, freedom, and peace. She often said that just cruising down the road, feeling the strength of the Mustang and the wind in her hair, was heaven.

But Kathy's main passion was reading. A voracious reader with more than 3,000 books on her beloved Kindles (of which she had four!) in addition to her physical books, Kathy especially adored Jane Austen and J.R.R. Tolkien. She read everything those authors wrote many times over. She also enjoyed writing fan fiction and was active in several online communities, where her work was well-received and often praised. It was her absolute happy place, a feeling she shared with her grandchildren. They treasure the memory of going to the bookstore, buying a book for everyone, going to eat, and proceeding to ignore each other as they engaged in parallel reading.

It was those grandchildren, however, who were the true light in her eyes. Kathy was known as "KayKay" to them, and all have special memories of time with her—the aforementioned parallel reading, deep conversations about Mustangs, watching The Hobbit with her, sushi dates, long phone conversations while commuting home. KayKay showed up at every sports game she could, and followed everything they did from afar. They were obviously the most brilliant and most accomplished grandchildren ever!

Kathy is survived by her daughters, Tasha Renee (Simoneaux) Duffourc and Cahdi (Simoneaux) Jones; her sister, Diane Langenstein Hall; her brother, Larry Langenstein; and her five grandchildren: Allison Dukes, Ryan Dukes, Devin Ulrich, Jordan Cecilia Jones, and Cameron Katherine Teresa Jones. She was preceded in death by her parents, Karl and June Langenstein.

A private family remembrance will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to make a donation to a charity of your choice—and perhaps take time to read Pride and Prejudice or The Lord of the Rings in her honor.

"End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it: white shores, and beyond, a far green country under a swift sunrise." — J.R.R. Tolkien

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09/24/2025

Derick Eugene Houston Sr.

Derick Eugene Houston Sr., 62, of Harvey, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, September 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 6, 1963, in New Orleans to Alberta Gaines, Derick was lovingly raised by Thelma and Bland Houston. He grew up in Kenner, where his roots and relationships shaped the generous, devoted man he became.

To know Derick was to know selflessness, strength, and humor—he could light up any room and had a wit so sharp his family often joked he missed his calling as a comedian. Derick was always the life of the party, drawing people in with his laughter, warmth, and larger-than-life presence. He had a deep love for music and dancing—so much so that when no one else was around, he would dance with his own shadow. His joy was infectious, and he carried it with him wherever he went. As a young man, Derick also played the drums in his church, using his gift for rhythm to lift spirits and bring people together. A natural people person, his dedication to family and community kept those around him close.

Derick met the love of his life, Sandra, when she was just 17 years old. They married two years later, beginning a 41-year journey of love, partnership, and devotion. Together they raised two children, of whom Derick was immensely proud. He never missed an opportunity to share just how proud he was of his children and grandchildren, and his family was truly the joy of his life.

Derick worked as a commercial truck driver, a profession that fit his strong work ethic and determination. He was a man who loved to work and gave his all to everything he did. Beyond his career, he had a passion for sports and was a die-hard New Orleans Saints fan, cheering on his team with unwavering loyalty. At home, he found joy in caring for his yard—cutting his grass and tending to his garden beds with the same pride and dedication he showed in all aspects of his life.

Derick also gave countless hours to coaching both recreational park leagues and school sports teams. He could always be found at the park, giving his time, energy, and heart to coaching and mentoring young athletes. For him, investing in young people was not a chore but a calling, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy in the lives of the many children he guided both on and off the field.

One of his guiding mottos was, “Whatever you decide to do in life, do it to the best of your abilities.” Derick lived by those words every day, leading by example through his hard work, generosity, and unwavering love for those around him.

Derick is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Sandra Houston; his two children, Britney MacCurdy and Derick Houston Jr.; and his beloved grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his siblings, Darrell Gaines, Yolanda Gaines, and Nina Collins, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who loved him dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thelma and Bland Houston; his mother, Alberta Gaines; and his sisters, Joycelyn Phillips and Toya Gaines.

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09/17/2025

Louise Collins Butera

Louise Collins Butera entered the Kingdom of her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at the age of 92. Beloved wife of the late Joseph Butera, Jr. for 55 years. Beloved daughter of the late Jessie Collins and Annie Mae Williamson-Treadway. Loving and devoted mother of Joni Usner (late Tommy), Gina DeRojas (Isidro), Julie Butera, Giovanni Butera and the late Joseph Butera, III (Margarita). Loving grandmother of Angelina Butera, Nicholas Usner, Vincent Usner, Shelby Butera Urrutia (Nick), Christopher DeRojas, Jacqueline Tewis (Chad), Alexander DeRojas (Alexis), Christian Butera (Brandi), Jameelah Amani Butera, Brandon DeRojas, Cecilia Butera and Lainie Butera. Beloved great grandmother of Clementine Butera, Chloe’ Tewis and Cooper Tewis. Sister of Betty Sue Crawford and the late Carl Collins, J. Ray Collins and Rubye Oliveri. Throughout Louise’s entire life, she held an unwavering faith in Jesus, which she shared with all those around her. A faithful and devoted servant of the Lord, Louise was a longtime member of Elysian Fields Avenue Baptist Church where she served in many different ministries. She especially enjoyed serving in the church’s children’s ministries, teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School for decades. She joyfully shared stories of Jesus and undoubtedly guided countless young souls in their first steps toward a relationship with Christ. Louise earned a degree in early childhood education and was a licensed florist who excelled in flower arrangements and wreath making. She loved gardening, knew the scientific name of every plant and flower, and enjoyed sharing her knowledge of gardening with her loved ones. The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care, tireless dedication and loving companionship provided by her caregiver, Claudia Richardson. Claudia, you always went above and beyond what was expected and were truly a blessing to our family. A private Celebration of Louise’s Life was held on May 10, 2025 at City Park Botanical Gardens. MOTHE FUNERAL HOME assisted the family during this difficult time. The family invites you to share thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at www.mothefunerals.com.

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