Gay Rita Lee

Gay Rita Jastram Lee, of Hammond, Louisiana, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on July 10, 1936, in New Orleans, she was the daughter of the late Lloyd Jastram and Orlea Enniger Jastram. A longtime resident of Hammond for more than twenty years, Gay previously lived in Kenner, Louisiana, and Picayune, Mississippi. A devoted parishioner of Holy Ghost Catholic Church, she remained a cherished member of her community throughout her life.

Above all, Gay was a loving mother and grandmother whose steadfast dedication to her family brought her deepest joy. She cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories through simple pleasures such as playing games, celebrating holidays, and sharing her passion for clothing and fashion. An avid supporter of LSU and the New Orleans Saints, she touched the lives of all who knew her with her sweet nature and warm spirit.

She is survived by her children, William Hugh “Bill” Lee III, Karen Lee Arnouville (Chris), Linda Lee LaMonte, and Felicia Kay Lee Brown (Troy); grandchildren, Virginia, Nicole, Jacob, and Hannah; step-grandchildren, Kristina and Kenneth; great-grandchildren, Chloe, Paul, Lantz, and Ivy; several step-great-grandchildren; her sister, Jeanne Hingle; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many dear friends.

In addition to her parents, Gay was preceded in death by her husband, William Hugh Lee Jr.; step-grandchild, Korie; sister and brother-in-law, Renelda and Joe Marchand; and brother-in-law, Norwood Hingle.