KATHERINE E. GOVERNALE
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Katherine E. Governale, at her home in Morgan City, Louisiana on June 30, 2023. Katherine was a cherished wife, mother, grandparent and great-grandparent who touched the lives of many, one who will be deeply missed.
Katherine was born on August 19, 1928 in Monroe, Michigan to Italian immigrant parents, Mary Spinalli Bellestri and Santo Bellestri, of Augusta, Sicily. At age 18, she left her family in Michigan to relocate to Patterson, Louisiana. It was here that she began a new chapter in her life. Fluent with the Italian language since childhood, she became a translator for her Uncle Captain John Bellestri, in establishing his new business. Within a year, she met and married the love of her life, Carlo (C.J.) Governale. Their union produced two loving daughters and their happy marriage endured until Carlo’s death in 2014. Though she built a wonderful life in Louisiana, Michigan was always near and dear to her heart — she never stopped missing her family and made frequent trips “back home” with Carlo and the girls in tow. She had a passion for cooking, gardening, sewing as well as taking care of her beloved cats. Above all, Katherine dedicated her life to her family.
She was survived by her daughter, Pamela G. Theriot and her husband, J.D. Theriot of Morgan City, Louisiana. One sister, Frances Fanslaw of Monroe, Michigan. Four grandchildren: James B. Williams of New Orleans, Louisiana. Mario David Duchow of Orlando, Florida. Vanessa Duchow Roberts of Bel Air, Maryland. Kimberly K. Williams of Houston, Texas. Two great-grandchildren, Molly and Heather Roberts of Bel Air, Maryland.
In addition to her parents and 9 siblings, Katherine was preceded in death by her husband, Carlo, and their daughter, Kathleen.
We shall remember Katherine with love, gratitude, and the impact she made on our lives. Grateful to our Lord Jesus Christ for the joy Katherine brought to us throughout her long life. May her memory be a blessing to all those who knew and loved her.
The family extends their sincere thanks to Mrs. Debbie Broussard, who was Katherine’s caretaker in the final weeks of her life. Her devoted, loving attention was crucial in providing care and comfort. In addition, special thanks to Dr. Natalie Dishman and staff and Ms. Anna LaBauve and Tiffany Millstead of Hope Hospice for their dedication.