Jeannine Chance Drucker

Jeannine "Neanie" (Chance) Drucker, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and educator, passed away peacefully at home in Kenner, Louisiana, on February 15, 2025, after a courageous battle with colon cancer. She was 76 years old.

Born on October 6, 1948, in Columbus, Mississippi, Jeannine was the daughter of Earline Vaughn Ellis and Dr. Donald Rich Ellis, Sr. She grew up surrounded by a large and loving family, with numerous cousins who became lifelong friends. As a child, she spent summers with her Grandmother and Grandaddy Vaughn or Aunt Jeannine in Columbus, or in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with her beloved Aunt Gabie and Uncle Garvin, where she formed lasting memories.

Jeannine spent her early years in New Orleans before moving to Terrytown, Louisiana, where she was raised by her devoted mother, affectionately known as Grandma E'en, along with her siblings, Don and Gabie. Her mother, Earline, was a hardworking and strong single mother who supported her children as the head of the heart station at Hotel Dieu Hospital for over 30 years. She also instilled in them the values of faith and community through their active membership at Calvary Baptist Church, where Jeannine would later meet her first husband, Kenneth Chance. They were married in 1968, and together, they raised their only son, Jeff, who was born in 1976. Jeannine would stay close to the Chance family for the remainder of her life.

Jeannine was a proud graduate of West Jefferson High School (1966) and went on to earn her undergraduate degree from LSUNO in 1970. Her career in education spanned over three decades, during which she touched the lives of countless students and colleagues. After beginning as a teacher, she transitioned into administration, and eventually became the principal of multiple schools, primarily at McDonough 26 Elementary School in Gretna. Her passion for education was unwavering, and she earned a master's degree while pregnant with her son, Jeff. Throughout her career, she inspired and mentored generations of educators, always advocating for the success and well-being of her students.

After retiring, Jeannine embraced many new adventures. In 2002, she sold her home in New Orleans and moved to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. A couple of years later, she married Darrell Drucker, and together they shared a love of travel, side by side. Their life together was filled with joy as they traveled the world, from camping in the woods to cruising the rivers of Europe.

Jeannine met Darrell while Cajun and Zydeco dancing during the weekly Fais-do-do at Tipitina's. They would enjoy dancing for many years and made a host of great friends. They were such skilled dancers that they would teach and perform demonstrations for visitors to the city. Jeannine's love for reading also led her to join a book club, where she formed lasting friendships with several wonderful ladies.

In retirement, Jeannine was an active and committed volunteer. She served as Vice President of Education and on the Board of Directors for the Friends of the Cabildo, as well as a walking tour guide and training course facilitator. She also volunteered at the Aquarium of the Americas. Through these roles, she shared her deep love for New Orleans, its history, and its culture, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of learning from her.

After Hurricane Katrina, she took a job working in customer service at Metairie Bank to help out while her husband rebuilt his printing business. Her Taste Bud Tours took visitors on a culinary journey through the city. She worked for tips and often did quite well. Anyone who knew her would understand why-she loved to talk, and her excitement and enthusiasm made her a pleasure to listen to.

Jeannine was deeply devoted to her family and found immense joy in being a grandmother to her two granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Caroline. She was also a cherished stepmother to Duane (Lynette) Drucker and Dara (Bo) Stevens, and step-grandmother to Lilllian, Claire, Sadie, Lyndon, Bowman, and Sam. Ms. Lil, Darrell's mother, and Jeannine were also very close.

She is survived by her loving husband, Darrell Drucker; son, Jeff Chance; daughter-in-law, Dayna; granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Caroline; stepchildren, Duane and Dara; mother-in-law, Lilllian Drucker, her sister, Gabie (Danny) Church, and sister-in-law, Nancy Ellis. She is preceded in death by her mother, Earline Vaughn Ellis; father, Dr. Donald Rich Ellis, Sr.; and brother, Donald Rich Ellis, Jr.

Jeannine's final act of generosity was the donation of her body to LSU Medical School, continuing her lifelong commitment to education and the betterment of others. Her legacy of kindness, dedication, and love for learning will be remembered by all who knew her.

A celebration of Jeannine's life will be held on March 26, 2025, at Celebration Church, 3550 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM, followed by a short service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society in Jeannine's memory.