
In Loving Memory

Verna Mae Marks Arnaud
August 19, 1938 — July 11, 2026
In Loving Memory of Verna Mae Marks Arnaud
Verna Mae Marks Arnaud, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on July 11, 2026, after a courageous and lengthy battle with dementia. Born on August 19, 1938, in Leonville, Louisiana, Verna lived a life filled with love, laughter, and warmth. She was the beloved daughter of the late Louis A. Marks and Marie Jeane Quebedeaux Marks and was predeceased by her brothers, Jimmy and Junior.
Verna leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by her husband of 71 years, Rodney Joseph "Joe" Arnaud. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising four children: Sheryl Carriere (Donald), Carl, Jenny, and Fay Leger (Mark). Verna's love extended to her ten adored grandchildren: Mechelle Broussard (Matt), Sammy Carriere (Angie), Donnie Carriere (Cameron), Kelli Woods (Jonathon), Kyle Arnaud (Kaitlyn), Cody Arnaud, Megan Meche, Brandi Speyrer (Derrick), Katie Roy (Scott), and Olivia Leger (Laz). Her heart was further filled with joy by her 21 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.
As a homemaker, Verna excelled in creating a warm and welcoming home. Her passion for cooking and baking was legendary; she was renowned for her pecan cake, pralines, coconut cake, and monkey bread. Family gatherings were always eagerly anticipated, not only for the delectable meals but also for the love and laughter that Verna brought to every occasion. Her sewing skills were equally admired, as she crafted beautiful garments for her daughters, nieces, and granddaughters.
Verna was an active member of the Leonville Sharing Homemakers and St. Leo the Great Altar Society, where she shared her talents and spent time with dear friends. Her generosity, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her family and community will live on in their hearts forever.
Verna is also survived by her sister, Geraldine Willingham, brothers Roderick and John Dale Marks, and a host of nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.
A service celebrating Verna's life will be held on July 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Melancon Funeral Home, located at 4708 I-49. Family and friends are invited to gather in honor of a life well-lived and a woman dearly loved.
The Arnaud family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Brandy Guidry, Verna's dedicated caregiver, and the compassionate staff of Allegiance Health Care for their loving support during her final days.