Shirley Deas Gelpi Zibilich

Shirley Anne Deas Gelpi Zibilich, fondly known as Cookie, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024 in Covington. She was 90 years old. Cookie was born in New Orleans, LA and spent her early life between the city and “the country” of St. James Parish. She attended St. Dominic Grammar School, Ursuline Academy and Louisiana State University. She married Robley Gelpi, Jr. and together they raised their large family in River Ridge until 1991. She moved to the Northshore following her marriage to Tony Zibilich and called it home for the last 33 years. Her homes were always bustling with activity, and many were welcomed at her table throughout the years.

Cookie lived a life dedicated to her Catholic faith and service of others. She was actively involved at St. Matthew the Apostle Parish and Mary Queen of Peace Parish. She was a Eucharistic Minister, choir member and volunteered for many years at Lakeview Hospital.

Cookie is survived by the family she adored, including sisters Mary Demarest and Janet Legrand; children Peggy Gelpi, Mary Bergeron (Everett), Mickey Gelpi, Bobby Gelpi (Daphne), Sally Forman (Ron), Stan Gelpi, Cindy Franklin (Kevin) and Cathy Popick (Aaron); grandchildren Michael Schexnaydre (Greer), Michelle Blake-Finley (Duncan), Allison Bergeron, Marc Bergeron, Jeff Bergeron (Belinda), Amy Cheramie (Caden), Collin Gelpi, Meredith Gelpi, Bonny Birely (Grant), Rob Gelpi, Lindsay Leone (Allen), Alex Carter (Jared), Alena Vinet (Matt), Emily Toras (Lefteris), Cassidy Forman, McClain Forman (Samantha), Dan Forman (Catina), Amelie Lyles (Chuck), Blake Franklin, Beau Franklin, Kate Popick (Jake) and Gia Popick. She is also survived by numerous great grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews, godchildren, and lifelong friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Mabel and Stanley Deas, sister Lettie Counce, husbands Robley Gelpi, Jr. and Tony Zibilich, and daughter Sandy Gelpi.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Christwood and St. Tammany Hospice. A memorial service will be held at a later date at Lake Lawn Funeral Home to celebrate her wonderful life. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church, St. Tammany Hospice or the charity of your choice.