Agatha Orfanello Sanchez passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at the age of 87. She was the beloved wife of the late Robert Sanchez Sr. A wonderful mother to Robert Sanchez Jr (Dena), Elizabeth S. Luke (Steve) and Gina S. Bilbo (Jeff). Proud grandmother of Dominic Luke, Monica Luke Willman, Jacob Luke and Luke Bilbo. Great grandmother of James Luke, Townes Willman, Charlie Jo Luke, Robert Luke and Louisa Willman. Sister of Josephine O. Trentecosta, Maria O. Bordelon, Anna O. Simpson, Giochino “Jake” S. Orfanello and the late Lucio “Lucien” Orfanello Sr. Agatha is also survived and fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Agatha was born in Alia, Sicily, and was the first-born child of the late Rosalia DiCarlo Orfanello and the late Ignazio Orfanello. At the age of 13, Agatha embarked on a journey to America, where she built a life filled with love, compassion, and service to others. Her formative years were spent in the city of New Orleans, LA. It was in New Orleans that she grew into the remarkable woman who would touch the hearts of so many.
Agatha's journey continued when she married and settled in St. Bernard Parish. After the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina, she showed her resilience by moving to the Northshore, where she resided for the past 18 years.
Agatha's faith was an integral part of her life, and she was a devout Catholic who found solace in her daily Mass attendance at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Chapel. She served as a Eucharistic Minister and was an active member of the Altar Society, where she dedicated her time to cleaning, ironing, and repairing linens and garments. Her altruistic spirit shone through as she used her sewing skills to create scarves, with proceeds donated to the chapel for the benefit of the less fortunate. Agatha's love for cooking was another facet of her giving nature. She volunteered her culinary talents at St. Benedict's, where she prepared meals for those in need. She also lent a helping hand at various St. Joseph Altars across St. Tammany Parish, embodying her spirit of community and generosity.
Agatha had a zest for life that extended beyond her dedication to faith and service. She relished the opportunity to explore the world through travel, enriching her life with diverse experiences and cultures. Yet, her heart truly found its place at home, surrounded by the warmth of family and friends. A warm, loving soul with an unwavering positive attitude, Agatha touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her appreciation for life's simple pleasures and her enduring spirit will be dearly missed. Her legacy of love, kindness, and service will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. Her memory, her laughter and her love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her fig cookie tradition is as timeless as her laughter and will live on!
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Chapel, 4465 N Causeway Blvd, Covington, LA on Saturday, September 16th from 10:00AM – 12:00PM, followed by a Latin Mass in Agatha’s memory beginning at 12:00PM. She will be laid to eternal rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens.
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