Charles Jude Larche

A Life Well Lived: Honoring the Legacy of Charles Jude Larche. When Charles Jude Larche rode his prized Tennessee Walking Horse through the streets of New Orleans during Mardi Gras, his family always knew where to find him. At the corner of Orleans and Galvez, with a big grin and a twinkle in his eye, he'd wave enthusiastically and proclaim, "I'm out! I'm out! I'm all out of throws!" It was the same playful jest every year, and it never failed to fill their hearts with joy and laughter. This was Charles-full of life, humor, and a love for making memories that would last a lifetime. On September 28, 2024, at the age of 87, Charles peacefully departed this world, leaving behind a legacy as rich and flavorful as the city he loved so dearly. Born on August 4, 1937, in New Orleans, Louisiana, he was the beloved son of Charles "Brother" Larche and Anna Bergeron Larche. Raised in the heart of the city, Charles embodied the spirit of New Orleans-resilient, passionate, and always embracing the rhythms of life. His story is one of enduring love and commitment. For 61 remarkable years, Charles was the devoted husband of Gloria Creecy Larche. Their marriage was a shining example of partnership and faith, strengthened over decades filled with shared dreams, laughter, and cherished memories. Together, they built a life rooted in love, community, and a deep appreciation for family. Charles was the proud father of two cherished daughters who were the light of his life. His eldest, Rochelle Marie Larche, brought immeasurable joy to his world with her vivacious spirit and loving heart. Her passing was a profound loss, but her essence remained a constant presence in his life, guiding him with the warmth of her memory. His younger daughter, Judge Charlene Larche Mason, carried forward his legacy of integrity and service. Family was everything to Charles. His son-in-law, Ronald L. Mason, became the son he always wanted, and their relationship was built on mutual admiration and genuine affection. The greatest delight of his later years was his grandson, Carter Larche Mason. To Charles, Carter was not just a grandchild but a living testament to his life's journey-a continuation of the love, strength, and heritage that defined their family. A proud alumnus of Joseph S. Clark High School, Charles furthered his education at Southern University at New Orleans. With a profound sense of duty and honor, Charles's path led him away from the cobblestone streets of his beloved city to the disciplined world of the United States Air Force where he traveled the world from the Philippines to Greece and from Alaska to Korea. For nine years, he served with distinction in security communications, his natural charm and quick wit making him as adept at decoding messages as he was at lifting spirits in the barracks. After his military tenure, Charles returned to his roots and embraced his entrepreneurial spirit, establishing Smithy's Restaurant and Bar, later affectionately known as CJ's, in the heart of The Seventh Ward. For over four decades, his establishment was more than just a place to dine-it was a neighborhood cornerstone where stories were shared over po'boys and fried seafood plates, laughter echoed freely, and everyone was welcomed like family. CJ's stood as a testament to Charles's belief that good food and better company could solve most of life's problems. His warm hospitality and generous nature made CJ's a beloved gathering spot, reflecting his innate ability to bring people together. Charles shared his affection for horseback riding with enthusiasts across the city. His love for horses led him to become a founding member of the first African American horseback riding club in the city of New Orleans, The Circle "C" Riding Club. During Mardi Gras, his favorite time of year, he proudly rode in parades throughout the city of New Orleans adorning both the eastbank, westbank and Treme' alike. From Zulu to Choctaw and from Treme' to NOMTOC, his playful antics and charismatic presence became legendary, turning ordinary moments into cherished memories. An adventurer at heart and an avid sportsman, Charles found solace on the water, spending countless hours boating and fishing along Louisiana's scenic waterways. His love for music and dancing was evident to all who knew him; he was often the life of the party, lighting up dance floors with moves that belied his years. As Charles rests in eternal peace, his spirit will forever be alive in the memories held dear and the stories shared by his devoted wife of 61 years, Gloria Creecy Larche; his daughter, Judge Charlene Larche Mason (Ronald); and his cherished grandson, Carter Larche Mason. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law Wendell H. Creecy; dedicated special cousins Wilhelmina Seaton Sylve and Agatha Seaton Collins; nephews Devin and Raynard Creecy; niece Renate Thompson; godchildren Kevin Prevost, Raynard Creecy, and Angelique Boyd; and a host of cousins, extended family, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles "Brother" Larche and Anna Bergeron Larche; his enamored eldest daughter, Rochelle Marie Larche; his mother-in-law Dorethea Parquet Creecy; father-in-law Melvin Creecy Sr.; brother-in-law Melvin J. Creecy; and sister-in-law Jacqueline A. Creecy. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Charles's life at a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, October 12, at Corpus Christi-Epiphany Catholic Church, 2022 St. Bernard Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70116. Visitation will begin at 8:00 a.m., followed by the Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 4000 Norman Mayer Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70122.