Mary Loretta Danna Dispenza

Born March 24, 1929 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A lifetime resident of Baton Rouge passed away at St. Joseph's Hospice after a lengthy illness. She was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, Vincent Dispenza, her parents, Shay and Chetta Danna of Baton Rouge, niece JoAnna Sevin of Dallas Texas, numerous aunts and uncles of Baton Rouge. She is survived by one sister, Jo Danna Sevin of Dallas Texas; niece, Paula Hayes of Clearwater, Florida, nephew, Gordon Sevin of Gunter, Texas, niece, Sandy Dispenza Martin of Baton Rouge, niece Christine Burke of Dallas, Texas, and cousin/goddaughter, Rosemary Turner of Baton Rouge, numerous other family members. Mary was a graduate and Valedictorian of St. Joseph's Academy and Baton Rouge Business College. She was an executive secretary for South Central Bell and retired after 37 years of service. She was a member of numerous organizations including Kayak, Pioneers Communication Workers of America, several Italian-American Societies including, Cefalutana Society. She was an avid genealogy researcher and successfully traced her family roots back to the 1500's in Sicily. During this research time, she traveled many times to Sicily with her husband and extended family members. She was a true entertainer and adored hosting events at her home for family and friends with the best attention to detail. She loved Gone with the Wind and the Sound of Music and collected many items of memorabilia from the two movies. She was a very giving and loving wife, sister, aunt, and friend to all those around her and will be missed immensely. Special thanks to family, friends, doctors, nurses, caregivers for their loving care, friendship and support. A special thank you to St. Joseph Hospice, Carpenter House, Audubon Home Health, A First Name Basis and Ochsner Clinic and Hospital. Visitation will be Thursday, May 28th, at Rabenhorst Funeral home 825 Government St. from 5pm until 8pm and Friday, May 29th from 9am until 10am at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, with Mass of Christian Burial at 10am, following with burial at Roselawn.