Ms. Isabelle Sonnier

Sunrise almost a hundred years ago began for Isabelle Sonnier in Maurice, Louisiana, on August 31, 1926, when Foster and Leah Sonnier welcomed their beautiful blessing, their firstborn baby girl, into this world. The Sonniers, as well as Isabelle’s maternal grandparents, the Catalons, were part of a long line of devoted Catholics who continuously gave much of their lives to the Church for generations.  The family was known not only for faithful worship but also for leadership, service, and for donating land to help construct and grow the Church in Maurice, Louisiana.  Isabelle continued her family’s tradition for many decades until her health no longer allowed.

The running joke for decades was that one could not be buried, confirmed, marry, or die at Our Mother of Mercy without going through Isabelle first. For decades, Isabelle was very active and in leadership roles in organizations such as the Ladies Sodality, Knights of  Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, OMOM choir, Eucharistic ministry, taught Catechism and RICA,  and was a member of Associate Program of Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, Houston, Texas, as well as a member of the Lectors Ministry,  to name only a few roles where she made a difference in the church community.  She brought elegance, beauty, and joy to everything she touched.

Isabelle was a huge and knowledgeable football fan who had Houston Oilers season tickets for years. She and her girlfriend’s favorite thing was to travel to all the Oilers' games, shop in the cities, and share their adventures.  She loved high fashion, sailing and traveling with her sister Billie, and family gatherings. Keeping up with local sports with her brother, (Late) Coach Lee Sonnier, and the “apple of her eye,” her son Ken, as he played football for Monsignor Kelly High School and the U.S. Naval Academy, were definitely highlights and special times.

Isabelle loved seeing all her neighbors come out to vote, and she worked as a poll judge each year, encouraging others to get involved. Professionally, Isabelle worked in the medical sector as an American Society of Clinical Pathologists certified Histologic Technician until she retired from St Elizabeth’s Hospital after thirty years, having received numerous accolades and awards.

Ms. Isabelle Sonnier is survived by her loving son, Kenneth D. Martin, Sr. (Jocelyn Stallings), beloved sister, Billie Ruffin, grandchildren Kenneth D. Martin, Jr. (Pauline), Kelli Martin, bonus grandchildren, Charmaine DeGrate’,  Dante’ DeGrate’ (Shelly),  and a host of great-grands, nieces, and nephews whom she loved dearly.

Isabelle transitioned peacefully to live with our Lord eternally on Tuesday morning, January 27, 2026.  Her light shines brightly.

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