Mary Spansel Guidry

Mary Louise Spansel Guidry (affectionally known by many as, “Granny Mary”) was born on August 21, 1927, uptown in New Orleans, Louisiana. She called Down the Bayou (Galliano) home for 73 years. After a long fulfilling life, she passed away peacefully in New Orleans on July 2, 2026, at the age of 98.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 30 years, Lloyd Philip’ Guidry; her father, William F. Spansel, Sr.; her mother, Christina Schaffer Spansel; her baby, Karen; and her siblings, Charles W. Spansel, Sr. (Gloria), William F. Spansel Jr. (Eloise), and Carolyn S. LaFrance (Charles).

Mary is survived by her children, Debra G. Suffrin (Alex), John L. Guidry (Karen), and Patricia G. Simoneaux (Lyle); 8 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren, who will all miss her dearly. She was the original charter member of the Catholic Daughters of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where she was a parishioner.

The focus of Mary's life was always her family and friends. She was a fun-loving Grandmother and devoted mother whose greatest joy was spending time with the people she loved. Whether she was working in her yard, preparing delicious home-cooked meals, wallpapering with the "Paper Doll Girls," or gathering around the table for a game of Bridge, Canasta, or Pedro, she brought warmth, laughter, and a competitive spirit to everything she did. Around the local card tables, she earned the nickname "the card shark" - a well-deserved title, thanks to an unshakable poker face and a knack for pulling out a game-winning move right when you least expected it. Her home was always filled with lots of love, delicious food, and happy memories. She treasured her family and friends above all else. Her kindness, humor, and generous heart will be remembered by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Relatives and friends are invited to the visitation at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Galliano, on Monday, July 13, 2026 from 9:00 am until Mass of Christian burial at 12:00 noon. Graveside services will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her name.

Falgout Funeral Home is honored to serve the Guidry family.