Kenneth Gerald Armand

Kenneth Gerald Armand
December 10, 1959 – March 19, 2025
Kenneth Gerald Armand, age 65, of Mandeville, Louisiana, passed away on March 19, 2025. Born on December 10, 1959, in New Orleans, LA; he was the cherished son of Hazel and Dennis Armand. He shared a birthday with his beloved mother, as well as a deep and special bond and was without a doubt the apple of his mother's eye.
Kenneth was a devoted and compassionate healthcare professional who dedicated over 30 years of his life as a Registered Nurse, serving patients with skill and heart at Humana Inc., United Healthcare, Ochsner Medical Center, UCLA Hospital, St. Tammany Parish Hospital, and numerous home health agencies. His knowledge, empathy, and commitment touched countless lives throughout his career.
A man of many passions, Kenneth found joy in gardening and landscaping. He was a tester for Jackson & Perkins Roses and cultivated stunning rose gardens at his Mandeville home that became a local delight-often admired, photographed, and even painted by passersby. His green thumb brought beauty to the world, just as his spirit did to those around him.
Kenneth had a deep love of travel and adventure, a passion that took root in his teenage years when he grew vegetables to fund solo Euro-rail trips across Europe-ventures made even more memorable by the spirited resistance (and eventual admiration) of his Cajun parents. He and his beloved former wife, Caryl Rich Armand, shared a love for exploring the world, often traveling to Europe, the Middle East, South and Central America, and beyond. Together, they created a life rich in experience, culture, and laughter. Though Kenneth and Caryl later divorced, their bond remained strong and unwavering throughout his life. Their love story began in Southern California, where they shared their early years camping, exploring, and cheering on the New Orleans Saints and LSU Tigers-especially on Sundays filled with friends, South Louisiana delicacies, and the spiciest Thai or Indian cuisine he could find.
Kenneth's heart was big-generous to a fault-and he frequently opened his home to those in need, offering comfort and support to anyone going through a difficult time. He gave freely, both in word and deed, always aiming to lift others up. A tireless volunteer, Kenneth gave his time and talents to the St. Francis Animal Sanctuary Cat House and the West St. Tammany Habitat ReStore, where his organizational skills and warm presence were a gift to many. He was known for his quirky sense of humor, his love of planning events, and the joy he brought to those lucky enough to call him friend.
Kenneth is survived by his devoted former wife and lifelong friend, Caryl Rich Armand; his first cousins who were more like sisters, Miki Baham (Dave) and Krys Custard (Phil), along with Krys's children and grandchildren; cousin Avery Battle; and Caryl's loving family whom he held close to his heart-Suzan and Howie Rich, Jordan Rich (Samantha and daughters), Caryn Rich (Asher), and Derek Rich. He also leaves behind a circle of dear friends including Glenn Accardo, Margaret and Barry Moore, and his cherished community at Serenity by the Lake.
He is also survived by his beloved furry companions-Lucy (Lucy Chew-Chew, aka Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds) and Shay Shay the cat-as well as the many animals he loved throughout the years: Callie Mae, Queen Victoria, and his gentle giant, Eleanor Rigby.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Hazel and Dennis Armand; grandparents Selena and Roy Armand, and Nora Bordelon and Henry Chatelain; "Sissy" Mae Chatelain Roth; uncles Harry Armand, Foster and Lee Chatelain; cousins Lolita Dupuy and Anna Mae Jackson; and his dearly loved in-laws, Thelma and David Rich.
A Celebration of Life and memorial gathering is being planned and will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Kenneth's name to the following organizations close to his heart:
Jewish National Fund – Plant a Tree in Israel: Trees for Israel
Bridge House / Grace House – New Orleans: Home | Bridge House/Grace House
NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness: NAMI | National Alliance on Mental Illness
St. Francis Animal Sanctuary – Cat House Donate
The loss of Kenneth leaves a void that cannot be filled. He was a kind, caring, and beautiful soul who touched lives in both big and quiet ways. While our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we take comfort in the belief that he is now in Utopia, reunited with loved ones who went before him, surrounded by peace and divine love. Heaven gained another angel with his passing.