Countless in the St. Charles Parish community have mourned the death of Guadalupe “Lupe” Sweeney, who recently passed away at the age of 88.
Sweeney was known for her selflessness, displayed regularly through her volunteerism in the name of numerous causes and agencies. After retiring from Entergy Waterford 1 and 2, she was a member of TRIAD, Council on Aging, Queen Yaya Sisterhood, Red Hat Society, Hornets’ Used to Bees dance team and Dancing Grannies, volunteering for community events including the Special Olympics, Food for Seniors and Toys for Tots. A St. Gertrude Catholic Church parishioner for 44 years, Sweeney was also well known for her strong faith.
She was also an active member of the Hahnville High School Touchdown Club and avid Tigers supporter.
“I would say that one word that really described her was service,” said Realtor Regina Allemand, who became close with Sweeney at the Touchdown Club when Sweeney’s grandson and Allemand’s son were Tigers’ teammates. “She served her community, she served her family and she would do anything for anybody – she would drop everything to help someone whether that entailed running the roads or giving the coat off her back.”
Connie Love, who volunteered along with Sweeney with the Special Olympics, said Sweeney had a big heart. Sweeney was a coach and volunteer with the organization for several years in bocce, bowling, basketball and other sports.
“She loved to watch our athletes grow and compete,” Love said. “She would always wear a smile, have a big laugh and hug for everyone in our group. We will miss her bright face and big attitude in our organization.”
Sweeney was also a volunteer and past chair with the Sheriff’s Office’s senior citizens TRIAD program. Sheriff Greg Champagne said Sweeney gave everything in all she did.
“She was so active in all aspects of the community and participated in nearly every organization and club that she could belong to,” Champagne said. “She was a very unique and wonderful, spirited lady. She would tell you that she lived a good life, but we will still miss her.”
Jessica Cortez, St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office TRIAD Coordinator, concurred.
“She was sweet, helpful, friendly, and always had a smile. Ms. Sweeney will be missed by all who knew her,” Cortez said.
Sweeney was born in Brownsville, Texas, where she later met her late husband, James. Together they had six children. She had numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter.
Allemand recalled one day in particular illustrating Sweeney’s inclination to put others first.
“Her 80th birthday party just so happened to be on my birthday. She had her children have a cake for me and during her own party, she had everyone sing happy birthday to me. To me, that’s special,” Allemand said. “She was a very diverse character. It didn’t matter what walk of life you came from, no matter what religion, rich or poor, she treated everybody the same way.
“She wanted the best for everyone.”
Hahnville High School principal Jose Gonzales said it’s well known at Hahnville that Sweeney has long been a positive force for Tiger athletics.
“She was up for any task,” Gonzales said. “She consistently helped with pre-game meals for multiple programs. She was there for all kids, not just her grandkids. She was a true Hahnville Tiger supporter.”
