Ora Lee Rita Roussell Jarreau

Ora Lee Rita Roussell Jarreau was born on February 23, 1934, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to the late Septine Roussell and Eva Bossier Roussell. She was the fourth of six children. She was a graduate of Joseph S. Clark High School. On Wednesday, April 8th, Ora Lee peacefully transitioned from this life, and entered into eternal rest in the loving presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Ora Lee was preceded in death by four of her siblings: Rudolph Roussell, Ruby Roussell Smith (Leonard), Rona Roussell Favarote (Eunice), and Carol Roussell Bringier, as well as her brother-in-law, Hurby Oubre. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving sister, Ruth Roussell Oubre, and brother-in-law, Ernest Joseph Bringier, Jr. Ora Lee was the wife of the late Robert Raymond Jarreau of New Roads, Louisiana. From this union, three sons were born: Darwin, Delbert, and Darrin. She loved her boys deeply, and they loved her just as much. In her eyes, they were perfect. Affectionately known as “Granny O,” she was cherished by her grandchildren: Bianca Berrios (preceded in death), Brittney Jarreau, Darrin Defillo, Reid Jarreau, Cole Jarreau, and Cayman Jarreau. Granny O leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Ronald Harris, III, Isis Walker, August Defillo, and Jaden Defillo. Ora Lee lived a life rooted in love, service, and quiet strength. She spent a number of years teaching nursery school, where she lovingly cared for and nurtured young children, leaving a lasting impression on many families. She continued her work of service by caring for the elderly, offering not only assistance, but genuine companionship to those who were often lonely or forgotten. She found great joy in making others feel seen, valued, and loved. She embraced life’s simple pleasures. She enjoyed crocheting, playing bingo, visiting the casino, and engaging in spirited games of pity pat. She was known for making some of the best pralines in the city of New Orleans, a sweet reflection of her warm and giving spirit. She took pride in giving to others and appreciated being acknowledged for her kindness and generosity. In her younger years, Ora Lee was a 1954 contestant for Miss Lincoln Beach, where she was officially named runner-up. However, to Ora Lee, she was always the winner of that title, and she carried that belief with pride and confidence throughout her life. It reflected her self-worth, her grace, and the quiet assurance with which she walked through life. She also found comfort and companionship in her beloved Shih Tzu, Precious, who remained a loyal and loving presence by her side until the very end. In a tender reflection of their bond, Precious passed away just one day after Ora Lee, as if unwilling to be apart from her. Ora Lee’s life is a testament to love, resilience, and the beauty of caring for others. Through her nurturing spirit, her laughter, and her devotion to family, she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her. She leaves to cherish her memory four loving nieces: Donna, Vanessa, Elise, and Carla; and devoted nephews: Greg, Bryan, Percy, Brandon (godchild), Marlon, Hurby, Ernest, and Torey (godchild), along with a host of other relatives and dear friends who will forever hold her in their hearts. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend her Mass of Christian Burial at Corpus Christi Epiphany Catholic Church, 2022 St. Bernard Avenue on Monday, April 20, 2026 at 10:00 am. Visitation will begin at 8:00 am. Interment: St. John The Baptist Catholic Church Cemetery in Edgard, LA. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Avenue. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the guestbook and share condolences with the family.

Ora Lee Rita Roussell Jarreau

April 8, 2026