Theresa Esperanza Medína Braud

Theresa Esperanza Braud, affectionately known as Espie, was born on February 22, 1931, in Orange County, California. She passed away peacefully on July 27, 2026, surrounded by love in Prairieville, Louisiana, where she had built a joyful life with her husband, Merrill “Pookey” Braud, and their beloved puppies.

Espie lived a vibrant life, characterized by hard work and an unyielding spirit. She was unapologetically beautiful, with the fashion sense of a true feminine diva, embracing every moment and dancing through life with joy. After a spirited adventure that took her coast to coast with Pookey, they chose to settle down in Prairieville, where she became a cherished member of the community. Espie worked at the Bank of Gonzales, now known as UCB, owned the Blue Water Seafood Market, and owned the Pookey Lane Trailer Park, where she positively impacted many lives.

A devoted Christian, Espie embodied kindness and faith, known as one of the most godly women anyone could meet. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who delighted in her family. With one son, Aaron Paul, she found endless joy in spoiling him, and she cherished her four grandchildren—Ashley, Sierra, Erica, and Brandon—along with her four great-grandchildren, Sophia, Amelia, Aiyana, and Krystal, with a new bundle of joy on the way that filled her with excitement.

Espie was known for her open-door policy; if you showed up at her home, you would find her ready to listen, often saying, “If it’s a secret, you better not tell me!” Her laughter, love of food, and passion for dancing made her a beacon of happiness to all who knew her.

She is survived by her soulmate, Merrill “Pookey” Braud; her sister, Ortenzia Tesse Torres and Rachel Lavalley; her brothers, Alfred Medína and Raul Medína; her daughter-in-law, Denise Davis-Rívas, and her husband, Chino; her four grandchildren—Ashley, Sierra, Erica, and Brandon—along with her great-grandchildren, Sophia, Amelia, Aiyana, and Krystal, and the anticipated new arrival. We can’t forget her chosen grand daughter Ginger Watkins and Family Along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Espie was preceded in death by her baby boy, Aaron; her beloved parents, Jesus and Juanita Medína; her sisters, Ruth and Lupe; her brother, Jesse; and her treasured niece, Carolyn Rheems.

Services will be held Thursday, August 6th at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church of Prairieville. Rosary will begin at 10:45 am followed by visitation at 11 am and mass beginning at 12 pm. Burial to follow at Prairieville Community Cemetery.

Espie’s spirit will forever be remembered in the hearts of those she touched, and her legacy of love and laughter will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.