Olivana Berton Hale Hebert
JENNINGS — In loving memory, we announce the passing of Olivana Berton Hale Hebert on May 6, 2024 at the age of 99. Olivana was born June 29, 1924 in the town of McRae, Ark., the daughter of Richard and Rose Hale. She was preceded in her passing by a sister Owana (Mickey) Fagan and a brother R.B. Faberlee (Buddy) Hale.
Olivana was married to the late Judge John W. Hebert. The couple met in New Orleans where Olivana was working at Charity Hospital and were married in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in that city in 1950. After moving to Jennings, she worked at the American Legion Hospital until the birth of the first of her ten children, all of whom survive her: Richard (Melane) Hebert, Vickie (Tom) Anselmi, Jill (Wes) Whittman, Mona (Ralph) Sepulvado, Angela (Enrique) Eligio, Theresa (Phil) Demmel, Diane (Ricky) Edwards, Charlie (Lisa) Hebert, John (Carolyn) Hebert and Mandy (Jerry) Martinez. She is also survived by her 58 grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, 104 great-grandchildren and two step greatgrandchildren.
Although she grew up in a small town, Olivana developed a great love of travel and spent much of her young adult life traveling while also working in hospitals in California, Texas and Louisiana. She would later continue her travels with her children throughout the United States, Canada, Asia and Europe, enjoying learning more about her own world and the people in it.
For many years, Olivana enjoyed active sports like tennis and golf but also relished reading and spending quiet time working jig saw puzzles with all who wanted to join her. Her greatest passions were her Catholic faith, that she came to as a convert, and her ever growing family that brought her love and joy. She felt that her family was her life’s great work and never failed to share her thoughts about the importance of both. In her most recent years, Olivana was able to remain living at home where she was lovingly cared for by her family. They were also in the process of planning her 100th birthday celebration, which was to be celebrated next month. She will be missed dearly by family and friends. We love you very, very much Mom and Grandma.
Visitation will be held at Miguez Funeral Home in Jennings on Thursday, May 9, 2024 from 4-8 p.m. with a rosary being recited at 6 p.m. A mass will be celebrated for all by Olivana’s grandson, Father Jeff Hebert, at Our Lady Help of Christian Church on Friday May 10, 2024 at 1 p.m., with a reception to follow the burial, at the Knights of Columbus Hall.
Burial will take place in Calvary Cemetery under the direction of Miguez Funeral Home.