Mary Ann Braud Edwards

Mary Ann Braud Edwards, a native of St. James Parish, has been a trailblazer throughout her life. She was a member of the first graduating class of Magnolia High School in 1953 and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Southern University & A&M College in 1957. She later earned a Master’s in Education, plus 30 from Nicholls State University and Southeastern University, and Reading Specialist Certification from Nicholls State University. Mrs. Edwards dedicated 32 years to teaching exclusively in St. James Parish and was one of two teachers who integrated the faculty of St. James High School. Her commitment to her students and strength of character helped guide African American students through an important period of change. She credits Principal Mark Bergeron for his fairness and support during that time. In retirement, Mrs. Edwards continued to serve her community through the Louisiana Retired Teachers Foundation, a past District IV president of Louisiana Retired Teachers Association, St. James Catholic Church, and the Tri-Parish Alumni Association of Southern University. She also established a book-giving program for children in St. James and Ascension Parishes. Above all, Mary Ann treasures her roles as wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was married to Lloyd C. Edwards for 59 years until his passing in 2019. She is the proud mother of Monique, Antonio, Herbert, and Lauren, grandmother of five: Theo, Orlando, Christa’lyn, Ryan and Taylor, and great-grandmother of Ethan, Chloe, and Jaylen. A devoted Southern University Jaguar and New Orleans Saints fan, Mary Ann enjoys traveling, especially with her daughter Monique, and is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She remained an active and faithful member of St. James Catholic Church. Relatives and friends of the family, along with the priests and parishioners of St. James Catholic Church, are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at St. James Catholic Church, 6613 LA-Highway 18, St. James, Louisiana 70086, on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am., Recitation of the Rosary at 11:00am; with the Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 12:30pm. Rev. Michael O’Rourke will be the celebrant. Arrangements are entrusted to D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, New Orleans, Louisiana 70125. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook and share memories and condolences with the family.

Mary Ann Braud Edwards

July 23, 2026