Maureen Finlay Prest

On March 16, 2026, at age 98, Maureen completed her earthly journey and headed off to the reunion she’d been waiting for — with her beloved husband, Frank, who surely greeted her with “Hey Maw-reen!” and a cup of black coffee.

Maureen was born in 1928 in Sarepta, Louisiana, growing up in a tiny house with her parents, three sisters and two brothers. And while there were times the family had little to eat, and only reconstructed feed sacks to wear to school, Maureen was always quick to point out it was that upbringing that molded her and ingrained in her an unwavering sense of determination.

In 1946, Maureen moved to Shreveport to find work and shortly thereafter, met the love of her life, Frank. She and Frank were married in 1947 and soon welcomed a son, Frank Joseph.

After retiring from the grocery store she and Frank owned for over 20 years, Maureen was able to devote more time to one of her greatest gifts, sewing. Maureen could sew anything: pantsuits, curtains, square-dancing dresses; crochet anything: we have the blankets and hangers to prove it; and quilt better than most. For many years, her sewing room was her office – and a treasure chest of thread, pins, patterns, and memories—each piece touched with her love.

Mornings were best spent her way: with strong black coffee and bacon cooked extra crisp. She believed breakfast was sacred, conversation was essential, and friends were family, and though many went before her, she never stopped cherishing them.

Family gatherings at her home were practically an institution. The door was always open, the table always full, and no one left without being fed, hugged, and reminded that they were loved. Her happiest days were filled with visits from her family, friends, and anyone else who was lucky enough to wander through that screen door.

She lovingly referred to her family as her “sheep,” watching over them with gentle humor and unwavering devotion. Her only wish for them—repeated more times than they can count—was simply, “Be happy.”

Maureen, Mama, Grandma, “G” leaves behind a family who will forever carry her lessons, her stories, her recipes, and her laugh. Though we will miss her fiercely, we celebrate her long, blessed life and take comfort in knowing she is finally exactly where she always wanted to be—back by Frank’s side, keeping watch over her flock from above.

There will be a memorial service at the Cathedral of St. John Berchmans in Shreveport, Louisiana, in May.