Mary Louise "Darling" Chatman

Mary Louise "Darling" Chatman, native of New Orleans, was born on November 5, 1939 in Donaldsonville, Louisiana to the late Nerlee Chatman Terry and Sam Chatman, and lovingly raised by her late stepfather, Richmond C. Terry. She accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age, and was baptized at Galvez Street Baptist Church under Reverend Brown. She later worshiped faithfully at New Covenant Christian Church under the leadership of Bishop Bill Hines.

Mary was educated in the New Orleans Public School System where she attended Johnson C. Lockett Elementary, Andrew J. Bell Middle School, and Joseph S. Clark High School. She worked over 20 years at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, where she was known for her warm spirit, humor, and joyful personality. She loved music, dancing, and telling stories about the old days. She will be forever loved and remembered; for Mary's laughter, energy, and kindness made her unforgettable to all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by, her parents and her stepfather; her beloved son, Norman Chatman; grandson, Korey Chatman, Sr.; great-grandson, Korey Chatman, Jr.; and her sisters: Sadie B. Williams Thompson, Audrey Chatman Young, Cassundra Terry Bentley; and brother, Claude Chatman. Oh, what joy Mary must have felt as she transitioned into heaven where she embraced each one of them for a long awaited family reunion!

Mary leaves behind her legacy of love and treasured memories to her brother, Lenox Chatman (Arletta); daughter-in-law, Debra Chatman; granddaughters: Normanique Chatman Jones and Tamara Vaughn; great-grandson, Martese Chatman; and Norman & Christy Wells; as well as a host of multi-generational nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was lovingly cared for by her loving niece, Catherine Cooper (Charles), with whom she resided for two years until her peaceful transition, and where Harbor Hospice provided their compassionate medical care during her final season of life.

Mary was joy in motion, a storyteller, a dancer, and a woman whose laughter warmed every room. She carried her faith with grace and her family with pride. Though she has taken her rest, her love remains, and her legacy will continue to shine through every life she touched... until we meet again.

Acknowledgments: The family of Mary Louise Chatman extends heartfelt thanks for your prayers, love, and support during this time of loss. Special thanks to Harbor Hospice for their compassionate care.