On August 30, 2024, the world bid farewell to a beacon of love and joy, Gretchel Agatha Porche.
Born on May 15, 1942, in New Orleans, LA, and a resident of Franklin, Louisiana for 82 years, Gretchel’s life was a testament to the simple, profound joys of family, faith, and friendship. Gretchel’s legacy, is one of warmth, kindness, and unforgettable memories.
Services for Gretchel will be held on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. Visitation will take place at Church of The Assumption Catholic Church in Franklin, Louisiana, from 10:00 AM until the time of the Holy Rosary, which will be prayed at 12:00 PM. Mass will begin at 1:30 PM, officiated by Fr. Joel Faulk. A graveside service will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery.
Pallbearers selected will be; Kevin Rodriguez, Luke Rodriguez, Donelson Stiel, Kameron Walden, Marcus St.Upery, Jason Doerle.
Gretchel was a devoted wife, who cherished her time at the condo in Gulf Shores, where she and her late husband, Trevor Porche, would often retreat. A passionate sports enthusiast, her infectious enthusiasm while cheering for her beloved Hanson High football team, LSU, and the Saints was a joy to behold. Gretchel’s social nature shone through her love for shopping and spending time with friends and family.
Sunday was a day of sacred significance to Gretchel, a day dedicated to attending church and spending time in reflection and gratitude. The annual Christmas Mass held a special place in her heart, as did the delight of watching children’s eyes sparkle as they unwrapped their gifts.
Her love extended beyond people; she had a deep affection for animals, particularly those she and her family raised. Her compassionate spirit touched every creature she encountered, and her gentle nature was a comfort to all. Gretchel’s presence at Hanson High School Mass on Fridays, her enthusiasm at dance recitals, and her unwavering kindness to everyone she met will be deeply missed. Gretchel’s life was a beautiful reflection of her generous heart, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Gretchel’s light may have dimmed here on Earth, but the love and joy she spread will continue to shine in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and warmth that will forever be cherished.
She is survived by her loving daughters; Cindy Porche Rodriguez and her husband Kevin; Tracey Porche Stiel and her husband Donelson; her grandchildren; Ashton St.Upery and her husband Marcus, Aleigh Doerle and her husband Jason; Luke Rodriguez and her his wife Karli, Kennedi Walden, Kameron Walden; her great grandchildren; Jax St.Upery, Mia St.Upery, Austin Schaubert, Dawson Doerle, Sylvie Rodriguez; her step grandchildren, Coroline Stiel Strohm and her husband Andrew, Donelson P. Stiel and his wife Abby, Katelyn Stiel, Aidan Stiel, Jude St.Blanc, Mycah Cormier, Grey Cormier, Emilia Strohm, Patricia Stiel, Victoria Stiel.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Trevor A. Porche; her grandchild, Caine Eric Rodriguez; her parents, Eric an Amide Thompson; her brothers, Dell and Newman Thompson; her sister, Felicia Ansley.
The family wishes to extend their special thanks to; Maxine Ashley, Sandra Hebert, Roslyn Peterson, Rachel Burgess, Melvina Morris, Sharon Savoy, Paulina M. Burgess, Harriet Cervantes, Dr.Roland Degeyter, Matt Barilleaux, and all the nurses at Bayou Bend Hospital of Franklin. Thank you all for your love and support during this difficult time.
Ibert’s Mortuary has been entrusted with the arrangements.