1938
2017
Viva Marie Birou Pesantes left her earthly body on December 24, 2017 at the age of 79. Born in New Orleans and resided in Kenner.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Viva Leray Birou and her sister, Gayle Birou.
She is survived by her daughters, Maria (Kodi), Isabel (Barre), and Shelly; her son, Gus (Doris); grandchildren, Victor, Marco, Doris, Jannett, Gus, Dominic, and Michael; close friend and former husband, Gustavo Pesantes; and friend, Eileen Rush.
Viva was a native New Orleanian that proudly grew up in the ninth ward on Rampart Street. A good catholic girl with big dreams. She graduated from St. Cecelia Catholic school and wanted to be mother and nurse. She did become a mother but nursing was not her calling. Her Aunt "Dot" introduced her to a career in the restaurant/hospitality industry. She loved her profession and the many friends she made along the way. It was there where she left her imprint. Customers and coworkers alike loved her. She was a lady with a big heart, gregarious personality, and a great sense of humor.
Viva truly loved life. She enjoyed going to church, praying, cooking, the beach, reading, traveling, painting, good food and drink, and spending time with family and friends.
Viva was a devoted and proud daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother. She loved her family unconditionally. She is now resting with her parents and sister.
Relatives and friends are invited to a Funeral Mass on Thursday, January 4th, 2018, at 1 PM in the Chapel of Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd in New Orleans. Visitation will begin at 10 AM. A private interment will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider having a Mass said in her honor. For those who wish to bring flowers, the family asks that you consider bringing a single rose, as it was her favorite flower.
The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at www.lakelawnmetairie.com .
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January 5, 2018
Melanie Meyer
I am so sorry for your loss. Viva was a wonderful woman who touched many lives. She will be sadly missed. My thoughts are prayers are with you.
January 5, 2018
Tom Pyburn
Maria, Gus, et.al.
I am so sorry to have missed the service for Viva. I was out of town and just now learned of her passing. I loved Viva dearly, and credit her with being perhaps the most influential person in guiding my career into the restaurant industry. Besides her wealth of knowledge, she was always a kind, caring "mother figure" - we had fun, but she also kept us on the "straight and narrow". She will be greatly missed. I am saddened by her death, but will always have fond memories of Ms. Viva!!!
January 4, 2018
Annette Suchy
My deepest condolences to the Pesantes Family. Viva was a groundbreaker for women in fine dining.
January 4, 2018
Friend
Laronda Lott-Hutchison
Isabel, my dear friend, I am deeply sorry for the loss of your wonderful and kind mother Ms. Viva. She always had a smile for me and she cooked the BEST Red Beans and Rice (I always had seconds). Ms. Viva, you were one-of-a-kind, and you will be truly missed. Isabel, Maria, and Shelley...lean on each for strength during this time because that's what your mother would want.
Rest in Heaven Ms. Viva!
Laronda Lott-Hutchison
January 4, 2018
Donna Angelle
Isabel, I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Donna Angelle
January 4, 2018
Laronda Hutchison
January 4, 2018
Laronda Hutchison
January 4, 2018
Laronda Hutchison
January 4, 2018
Laronda Hutchison
January 4, 2018
Vera Marcel
To my dear cousin veva I am so sorrry you passed away but know you are always in our prayers and we love you. We are having massas said for you. VerA, Roy, alison & family
January 3, 2018
James Shepack
My condolences to the family! I had the honor in meeting this lovely woman 35 years ago. She was a very sweet person and full of love! She is now with the Lord. God bless her. You will be missed!
January 3, 2018
Penny Held
a wonderful lady that will be missed by all. Gus, my heart is with you.
January 3, 2018
Shannon Barr
My deepest condolences to Viva's entire family. I am honored and blessed that our paths had crossed. Viva is one of the most genuinely kind, loving soul that I have ever met. I admired her and will miss her dearly.
January 2, 2018
Trina Lesassier
I only knew her for a short period of time but she was a very nice lady and such a wise one. Sorry for your loss chef Gus and Isabel
January 2, 2018
Annette Klingman
Maria, I sure see where you got you beauty & personality! I am hoping to make it Thursday. Much love & prayers for you all. RIP Ms P.
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Funeral services provided by:
Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124
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