Ernest Gilbert Chachere

Ernest Gilbert Chachere was born on November 25, 1925, in Mobile, Al. Ernest passed away in Potomac, MD at the age of ninety-nine. Ernest was the oldest of ten children born to Lancelot Chachere and Irene Faustina Chachere. He attended catholic grammar school in Mobile but moved to New Orleans to attend Xavier Prep High School. Ernest excelled in high school. Two areas of interest, however, were destined to shape and influence his life: his wife to be Carolyn Gusman and his love of music. With the United States at war, upon graduation from high school, Ernest joined the Navy. He was fortunate enough to be stationed in New Orleans at the Naval Air Station. While awaiting orders, one day he noticed an opening for the base bugler. He auditioned, won the job, and remained in New Orleans until the end of the war. After his honorable discharge from the Navy, Ernest and Carolyn were married in New Orleans on July 17, 1947. Driven by his love of music, Ernest applied and was accepted to the prestigious New England Conservatory of Music. He and his new bride moved to Boston, MA. While in Boston Carolyn gave birth to their first of three children, Daria. Several options were open to him upon graduation, but he chose to return to New Orleans. Ernest and Carolyn settled in Gretna which would be their permanent home. Soon after their arrival their first son Ernest Jr was born. Two years later Stephen arrived. Ernest was a devout Catholic. He and Carolyn were lifelong parishioners of St Anthony’s church in Gretna. The young family’s summers were always a time for family vacations with long road trips across the United States and Mexico. He began his teaching career at Booker T Washington High School as a music teacher and band director. Under his direction the concert and marching bands received superior ratings and accolades across the state. The band was soon a symbol of pride for the community. Due to extensive damage from Hurricane Katrina the high school was rebuilt. In recognition of his many achievements in a ceremony attended by family, friends, and former students, the new Dr Ernest G Chachere band room was dedicated. Ernest received his master’s degree from LSU and earned his PHD at the University of New Orleans. At UNO he was a Professor of Education and was appointed Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic and Minority Affairs and served as Director of International Programs. His role at UNO provided opportunities for travel to Asia, Africa, and Europe. He established strong relationships with universities in China and Thailand. After retirement Ernest was honored as a Professor Emeritus of Education by UNO. He was appointed by the Governor and enthusiastically accepted a seat on the Board of Directors of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts and served as president for four years. Ernest and Carolyn also continued their love of road trips travelling to visit family and a variety of locations across the country. Ernest is survived by his daughter, Daria, son-in-law William, son Ernie, daughter-in-law, Linda and daughter-in-law, Carol. He is preceded in death by his wife Carolyn, son Stephen and grandson Matthew. Ernest also has three grandchildren, Nicole, Jessie (Phillip) and Chris (Amanda) and five great grandchildren Henry, Sabine, George, Emile, and Gemma. There are also nieces, nephews, and other family members who will miss him.

Ernest Gilbert Chachere

March 31, 2025