Marion Ramsel

Marion Cass Gaiennie Ramsel, whose independence, and unique style guided every minute of her life, died Saturday, January 24, 2026.
She was born in New Orleans on July 9, 1930. Marion attended LSU, where she studied French, the language often spoken in her childhood home.
Marion married Escalon Joseph Gaiennie (Lonnie) in 1952, and they made their home in Shreveport. Three little boys came quite quickly, and life was busy. After Lonnie's death in 1969, Marion returned to school to achieve her Master of Education degree from The University of South Louisiana, in Lafayette. She returned to Shreveport with her boys, and taught school all over the city. Marion also thoroughly enjoyed selling real estate with Walter Hawkins Realty as well as Towery Real Estate.
There were many trips to New Orleans, and Pass Christian, Mississippi with her boys, her parents, and her beloved brother Sheldon Cass. These trips were peppered with fun and mischief, and are still re-lived today through storytelling. There is lots of family lore tied up in those trips, and the grandchildren relish hearing about them.
Marion had a wide coterie of friends in Shreveport, and enjoyed spending time with them. There were trips to North Carolina, Maine, Wyoming, Paris, London, and New York. These were happy trips which provided rich memories.
Marion was married to Lee Clark Ramsel from 1978 until his death in 1991.
During her last decade, Saturday nights became a highlight when family gathered for libations and dinner, and always quick conversation with dollops of family history. These Saturdays were always a focus for Marion.
She is survived by her sons; Escalon Joseph Gaiennie, Thomas Cass Gaiennie (Kathryn), and Edward Wilson Gaiennie. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Virginia Ramsel Gaiennie Strama (Keith), Thomas Clay Gaiennie (Sarah), Austin, TX.; Mary Martha Gaiennie Yancey (Richard), Shreveport; Edward Wilson Gaiennie, Jr. (Sara), John Hodge Gaiennie (Lizzie), Dallas, TX; and Robert Joseph Gaiennie, Houston. Marion also has 11 great grandchildren; Marion Cass Strama, Kathryn Trabulsi Strama, Amelie Genevieve Strama, Thomas Gaiennie Strama, Margaret Mackay Gaiennie, Fiona Helen Gaiennie, Mary Helen Marion Yancey, Clarence Richard Yancey, Edward Wilson Gaiennie, III, Graham Majors Gaiennie, and James Thompson Gaiennie.

Last, but certainly not least, Marion is survived by her devoted friend, and helper, Vera Maude Diggs. Life would not have been as successful or sweet without Vera Maude at her side.
Our family also would like to especially thank Contina Mcclindon, Alexus Simpson, and Tatyana Mcclindon for their devotion and care for Marion. They have made this last year one of love.
Dr. Rick Michael was the only doctor that Marion trusted explicitly, and he became a valued friend. Thank you, Dr. Michael, for your loving kindness and time spent with Marion.
Bristol Hospice has offered us exceptional care and counsel, and we are grateful, especially to Jessica Hooper for her kindness.
Marion lived her life on her own terms, never letting details get in the way. That said, she was always a champion for her family, their biggest and best support. Over the years, she inspired many to learn what is really important in life. A true gift.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 31, at 10:00, at The Cathedral of St. John Berchmans, Shreveport.