Bébé Maestri

Yvonne Alìce “Bébé” Hughes Maestri, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on October 14, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on May 24, 1947, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Bébé's vibrant spirit and infectious joy for life touched everyone she met.

Bébé was a graduate of St. Joseph Academy and Loyola University. She dedicated her time and love as a volunteer with the St. Ann Home and School Club, Dominican High School, and Jesuit High School, reflecting her unwavering commitment to always being involved in her children’s lives.

Known for her incredible love for her family, Bébé cherished every moment spent with her 14 grandchildren and her great-granddaughter, Eloise Martin. Her home was a place filled with laughter and celebration, especially during her favorite holidays: Christmas, Mardi Gras, and Halloween. She was often referred to as the “Queen of Halloween”. An enthusiastic Bridge and Onze player, as well as a devoted New Orleans Saints fan, Bébé was the life of the party and never met a party she didn’t want to host. Her cooking was a hallmark of her warm hospitality, which always brought family and friends together. Her simple acts of kindness and thoughtfulness touched many over the years.

She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Howard Maestri, and their four children: Missy Maestri Martin (Tom), Sheri Maestri Derbes (Lew), Christy Maestri Peveto (Clark), and Scott Maestri (Claire). Bébé, known as “Bay Bay,” leaves a lasting legacy through her grandchildren: Madison Martin Kuss (Myles), Davis Martin (Mary), Hayes and Maes Martin, Trey, Molly, Garrett, and Elliott Derbes, Emma, Cade, and Riley Peveto, Miles, Mae, and Belle Maestri. She is also survived by her longtime friend and caregiver, Doris Reyes.

Bébé was preceded in death by her parents, Alìce and James Hughes II, and her brothers, James “Jimmy” Hughes III and Victor “Vic” Hughes.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Sue Joseph, Vincia Hanson, Sheila Murphy of Notre Dame Hospice, Dr. David Meyers, Dr. Frank Wilklow, Dr. Fredric Regenstein, and Dr. Sheryl Martin-Schild for their compassionate care and support.

A visitation will be held at St. Ann Church, located at 3601 Transcontinental Drive, Metairie, Louisiana, on Saturday, October 19th, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM, followed by a Rosary at 12:30 PM. Mass will begin promptly at 1:00 PM. Private interment to follow.

In celebrating Bébé's life, we remember her warmth, laughter, and the countless memories she created with her family and friends. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hams for Fams, Tulane Transplant, (Under “Designation”, please select “Other” and type in “Transplant Surgery”) or Alzheimers Association. The family invites you to share memories and condolences online at www.lakelawnmetairie.com.