Patricia Coco Ellis

Patricia “Pat” Coco Ellis, born on May 15, 1943, in New Orleans, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at her home in Metairie on February 3, 2025, at the age of 81, surrounded by loved ones. A lifelong New Orleanian, Pat was known for her warmth, sharp wit, and ability to make life more interesting.

She was the daughter of Marguerite Waguespack and Malcolm A. Coco. Pat attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart and met William “Conner” Ellis Jr. while they were in high school. They married on June 6, 1963, and built a life filled with love and family. Pat attended Newcomb College and lived briefly in Charleston, SC, where Conner was stationed in the Navy, before returning to New Orleans, where they both shared over 60 years together.

Pat had a sharp mind and a natural talent for bridge, a game she played throughout her life. She loved her regular games with friends but also spent many late nights dealing out four hands and playing them all herself. She was a strong tennis and golf player and formed many lasting friendships through her regular matches. Pat loved classic movies and never missed an opportunity to watch The Sound of Music or My Fair Lady with her children and grandchildren. While she cherished the company of others, Pat always marched to the beat of her own drummer, embracing life on her own terms with grace and determination.

Pat is survived by her devoted husband, Conner and their three children, Julie Ellis, William “Bill” Ellis III (Kelly), and Steven Ellis (Sabine); her sisters, Marilyn Coco Ducasse, Elizabeth “Liz” Coco Diaz, and Evelyn Coco Randle; 11 grandchildren (William, John Conner, Parker, Taylor, Emma, Coco, Emily, Kate, Ashley, Sophie, and Audrey); and 3 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother, Marguerite Waguespack, and her brother, Malcolm “Butch” Coco.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend funeral services on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Lake Lawn Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Pat’s memory.

Pat’s loyalty, humor, and friendship will be deeply missed by all who knew her.