Kathey Darlene Martin Perez

Kathey Darlene Martin Perez Kathey, known to her friends and family as Darlene, was born in Mississippi on September 18, 1952. Darlene was an avid lover of animals and spent many years on horseback. As a young woman, she achieved a black belt in martial arts. She loved life itself and never met a stranger. As a resident of Louisiana, she served on the Gretna Police Department. While working in the private investigation industry, Darlene met Armando “Skip” Perez. It was not long before the two were married in 1985. They lived in Chalmette, Louisiana welcoming their beloved son Armando “Kris” Perez. They later moved their family to Hammond, Louisiana to start anew after Hurricane Katrina in a community of friends and family. Darlene had a true appreciation for the outdoors, shown through her love of gardening home grown vegetables for her family. Skip and Kris have fond memories of camping at Jellystone Park enjoying the comforts of home in the outdoors, as Darlene remembered every amenity and the family wanted for nothing. Their family snowball stand in Chalmette was loved by many and a place where she taught Kris the art of team work. She cultivated a loving household with her home cooked meals, quality time with her guys, creating lasting memories, and doing all things with love. Filled with compassion and interest in others, Darlene made friends easily and maintained contact with many. She was an active member of The Order of the Eastern Star, of which she was a Worthy Matron several times, giving back to her community since 1991. As a member of the Daughters of the Nile, serving as their queen in 2003, she was devoted to supporting Shriners Hospitals for Children. She enjoyed fundraising with fellow members of The Ladybugs on behalf of the Shriners Hospitals for Children. As a member of the Nawlins’ Klownettes, she loved bringing smiles of joy to local hospitalized children. Always putting the needs of others before her own, her signature gift of caring for others will never be forgotten. Darlene battled with stage four cancer for 32 months. Family and friends are grateful for her strength, surpassing all expectations. On February 24, 2019, at the age of 66, Darlene passed away in her home, in the arms of loved ones. Darlene is survived by her devoted husband Armando “Skip” Perez and their loving son Armando “Kris” Perez; mother in law Marie Costanza Perez; granddaughters, Kelcie Dardar, and Caitlyn Dardar; siblings Rickey Martin, Ray Martin, Debby Martin Hall, and James Martin; and several fond nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother Charlene Humphrey; father R.L. Martin; stepmother JoAnn Martin; and father in law Armando Joseph Perez. The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support in many heart-felt forms. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visitation from the chapel of Brandon G. Thompson Funeral Home, Ponchatoula, on Wednesday, February 27, 2019 from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.

Tributes

Kathey Darlene Martin Perez

September 18, 1952 - February 24, 2019