Leverda M. Richard

Leverda Matrana Richard, of Terrytown, Louisiana passed away on June 28, 2024 at the age of 92. She was born on January 14, 1932, in Westwego, Louisiana to the late Frank and Augustine Matrana. 

Leverda was the devoted wife of the late Lionel “Shorty” John Richard. Together, they raised seven children: Lionel Richard Jr. (Arlene), Lynette Burmaster (Lil Bit), Leonard Richard (Toni), Lori Mueller (Herbie), Leverda Gegenheimer (Kurt), Lisa Johnson (Michael) and Linda Quey (the late Rob). She was affectionately known as “Mama” by her twenty grandchildren: Patti (Jason), Melissa (Rob), Lionel III (Delana), Leslie (Mike), Pete Jr. (Andrea), Anthony (Heather), Amanda (Joe), Hailee, the late Lil Herbie, Jessica (Kenny), Elizabeth, Christina (Kyle), Lil Kurt, Courtney, Kaitlyn, Jennifer, Jamie, Josh (Macie), Jordan (Greta) and Jacob (Sadie). Loving great grandmother to twenty-nine great grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. Sister of Camile (Naida), Jenell (the late Carroll), Dolores (the late Richard), Daniel (Johnnie) and Anthony (Debbie). She is predeceased by her siblings Sadie, Nick, Emmadelle (the late Rock), Ethel (the late Johnny), Evangeline (the late Willie), Frank Jr. (Addie), Stella (the late Larry) and Beverly (the late Ike). She is also survived by nieces, nephews, friends, and many others her legacy has touched, and whose memory will always live on in their hearts.

Leverda was the glue, foundation, and matriarch of her sizeable family. She was also known as the “historian” of the bunch- always making sure to remember birthdays, anniversaries, and other family milestones, no matter how long ago. Leverda was the host of countless Christmases, Thanksgivings, Easters and other family events. A full house was more common than not, and despite the notoriously small amount of parking, everyone ensured that they were there to make memories with her year after year. After all, no one wanted to miss her famous red beans, sweet tea, potato salad or peanut butter fudge!

A tradition Leverda held dear to her heart was that she would be the first to bathe each new arrival in her family. She had a natural ability to care for children, ensuring they were always loved, played with and fed. 

Leverda’s hands were ever busy, and she was always ever-present for all her family. Her love will remain with all of us eternally. Her passing will undoubtedly impact each one of us. However, we find peace knowing that she and her loving hands have finally found rest, and that she was reunited with her love, Lionel, on his birthday after so long apart. 

A visitation will be held for Leverda on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at 9:00 AM, followed by Mass at 1:30 PM at Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expressway in Harvey. Leverda will then be laid to rest at Westlawn Memorial Park in Gretna, Louisiana.