Belle Sharp Gaitan

On Sunday, December 14, 2025, the world lost a remarkable soul in Belle Sharp Gaitan, who graced this earth for 85 cherished years. Born on Sunday, January 7, 1940, in Folsom, Louisiana, Belle lived a life that was not just measured in years, but in love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to family. She passed away peacefully in Hammond, Louisiana at Belle Maison Nursing Facility.

Belle was a devoted wife to her beloved husband, Robert Saldana Gaitan, Sr. Together, they embarked on a beautiful journey of marriage that lasted nearly 40 years, a testament to their enduring love and partnership. As a loving mother, she nurtured and supported her sons—Thomas Cline Mathies, Francis Kindall Mathies, and John Thomas Mathies—and daughters, Kimberly Juan Mathies (deceased) and Angelina Gaitan Leahy. Each child carries a piece of her spirit, instilled with the values and warmth that Belle effortlessly shared.

Belle’s role as “Gramsy” brought her immense joy, as she reveled in the company of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. To them, she was a source of unconditional love, support, and inspiration. Belle exemplified what it meant to be an involved and active grandparent, creating lasting memories that they will carry in their hearts forever.

A proud graduate of Covington High School, Belle's life was marked by professional successes as well. She was a former realtor in St. Tammany Parish before becoming a business owner in the greater Atlanta area for over 35 years. Her career was defined not just by her achievements, but by her strong relationships within the community.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Belle was known for her love of travel and her zest for life. Family vacations in Gatlinburg, fun-filled summers at Big Canoe, and holidays at “The Shack” in Folsom were the backdrop of countless cherished moments. These experiences were more than just events; they were the fabric of her legacy, illustrating her priority of family time and creating lasting bonds.

Belle’s personality shone brightly; she was a supportive wife, a loving mother, and an engaged grandparent whose kindness and compassion touched all who knew her. Her family, including sister Betty Sharp Cox, brother Ivan Sharp, her daughter-in-laws Sue and Beverly, and her many nieces and nephews, will hold her memory dear, finding solace in the stories and love she shared.

Though Belle joins her deceased family members - daughter Kimberly Juan Mathies, parents Archie and Edith Willie Sharp, sister Martha Sharp Hackney, and brothers Herman Sharp and Melvin Jourdan, daughter-in-law Jill Palmer Mathies - her spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of her loved ones. She leaves behind a legacy woven with love, resilience, and a deep appreciation for family, reminding us all of the beauty (as her name denotes) that can be found in many shared moments.

In the glow of her memory, Belle Sharp Gaitan will be profoundly missed but intimately remembered, a guiding light that will continue to inspire her family and friends for generations to come.