Melba Culotta Grapusa

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Her family carries forward the bonds of love, devotion, and togetherness that meant so much to her.

Melba Culotta Grapusa passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on October 29, 2026, in Hammond, Louisiana. She was born on October 5, 1935, in New Orleans, Louisiana, and lived a life marked by warmth, generosity, and a gracious spirit that drew people to her.

A 1951 graduate of John McDonogh High School, Melba went on to build a distinguished career in real estate. She was a Real Estate Broker and the owner and operator of Century 21 Patio Realty in Metairie, Louisiana and Depot Realty in Magnolia, Mississippi. Her professional life was further distinguished by her service as President of the New Orleans Board of Realtors, an accomplishment that reflected both her leadership and the respect she earned within her field.

Melba will be remembered not only for her professional achievements, but for the way she lived each day. She had a gift for entertaining and loved having company, creating an atmosphere of welcome wherever she was. She consistently put others before herself, offering care and kindness in ways both large and small. She also enjoyed coordinating football pools, a pastime that brought people together and added to the lively, convivial spirit she so naturally fostered.

Melba is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Wayne Bonnecaze; son and daughter-in-law, David P. and Jessica "Starr" Grapusa. She also leaves behind a cherished circle of grandchildren: David (Meghan) and Sam (Christina) Grapusa; Michael (Dana), Timmy (Jennifer), and Adam (Tiffany) Giroir; Lori (Ward) Easley; and Wayne “Jay” (Summer) and Ryan (Alexandra) Bonnecaze; and her adoring great grandchildren, Lily, Charlotte, and Declan Grapusa; Grace, Elizabeth, Elijah, Peyton and Emma Giroir; Dominic Giroir, Seth Blakeman, Haley Hoffman, Wyatt and Melody Easley; Ledger, Bennett, William and Benjamin Bonnecaze. In each of them, her family carries forward the bonds of love, devotion, and togetherness that meant so much to her.

Preceded in death by her daughter, Vickie Grapusa Giroir; her infant son, Tommy Grapusa; parents, Doris T. and Phillip P. Culotta; her second husband, Barry Trinchard; and her siblings, Maria Hawk, Margarite Ficarra, John “Sonny” Culotta Sr., and Philip “Buddy” Culotta Jr.

Melba’s life was one of accomplishment, hospitality, and deep devotion to those around her. She leaves behind the memory of a woman who welcomed others generously, led with strength, and loved her family wholeheartedly. Her presence will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Visitation and Funeral Service in the chapel of LN Hughes Funeral Services, 21400 South I-12 Service Road, Ponchatoula, Louisiana on Sunday, November 8, 2026 beginning at 1:00 pm until the service time of 3:00 pm.

Burial will be held in St. John Cemetery, New Orleans, Louisiana at a later date.