Shenita Maria Blakely

Shenita Maria Blakely, a cherished soul born on November 28, 1966, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, left this world on September 5, 2026, surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, warmth, and devotion. Shenita was the beloved daughter of the late Samuel and Thersa Blakely and was preceded in death by her cherished son, Robert Rimmers Jr., and dear siblings, Chris Shelmire, Sammie Blakely, Stinson Blakey, Tyrone Dwight Parker, and her sisters, Missionary Shirley Ann Moody and Sharon Hamilton. Shenita's journey through life was graced with the love of her surviving family. Her daughter, Iesha Blakely, and five precious grandchildren, Jahrunsalem, Jahremiah, Jahnoy Rimmers, Quincey Mckinnies Jr., and Jaliyah Keller, were the center of her universe. Her siblings, Willie, Mitchele, Oliver (Lorien) Blakely, Gloria Jean Mcleod Blakely of McLain, Mississippi, Anita Blakely Toney (Darrick), and Juanita Blakely Smith (Theodore) shared the bonds of family that she held so dear. Shenita was blessed with a devoted friend, Harold Butler, who stood by her side through life's highs and lows. Her close friends, Moique Brown, Sylvia Perkins, and Melody, were treasured confidantes who added joy and laughter to her days. She was also embraced by her bonus children, Keyaun Stann Forever (Free) and Bernell Jones, along with her grandchildren, Larry, Deion, Myia, and Keyla Forever, who enriched her life in countless ways. A proud graduate of Joseph S. Clark High School in 1984, Shenita dedicated over two decades of her professional life to serving others as a Direct Support Worker for Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans. Her career was a testament to her compassionate spirit and unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Shenita found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was cooking a meal to share with loved ones, indulging in a shopping adventure, or cheering on her favorite football and basketball teams. Her home was always a gathering place where family and friends felt welcome and cherished. A service to celebrate Shenita's remarkable life will be held on September 12, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Rhodes Funeral Home, located at 1020 Virgil St, Gretna, LA 70053. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Ochsner Hospital for their dedicated care during her final days. In honor of Shenita's legacy of love and generosity, the family suggests that donations be made to a charity of your choice, reflecting the spirit of giving that defined her life. As we bid farewell to Shenita, her family and friends hold her memory close, forever in their hearts.