Yvette Louise de Kernion O'Rourke

Yvette Louise de Kernion O'Rourke, a beloved figure in her community and a dedicated family member, passed away peacefully at her home in Covington, Louisiana, on August 31, 2025 at the age of 91. Born on March 29, 1934 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Yvette led a life rich with experiences, deeply rooted in love for her family and a commitment to service.

After attending LSU, Yvette's career began as a secretary at the U.S. Army Port of Embarkation. Beyond her professional endeavors, she was a devoted volunteer at Saint Joseph Abbey for 28 years, contributing her time and talents selflessly to the community.

She cherished reading, and enjoyed her travels abroad. Staying active was a hallmark of her daily routine; she enjoyed exercising and had a special fondness for animals, in particular red birds. She loved all of her pets, cats and dogs that she had throughout her life, such as her loyal German Shepherd, Alta. Yvette was happiest caring for and riding her beloved Arabian horses. Yvette also found joy in music and the arts, particularly through ballet and square dancing, and was a loyal and enthusiastic supporter of the LSU Tigers, the New Orleans Saints, and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Yvette leaves behind her husband, Daniel O'Rourke, to whom she was married for 65 years, and her daughters, Anne Kathryn Dominguez and Shannon Elizabeth O'Rourke. The legacy of her love will continue through her grandchildren, Alexandra Elizabeth Dominguez, Alyssa Anna Dominguez, and David Jordan Dominguez, who will carry forward the values and warmth she instilled in them.

She is also survived by her siblings: Sister Jeanne d'Arc Ann de Kernion, OSB, Paul Sidney de Kernion, III (Carol), Jéan Bayhi de Kernion (Mary), Sidney Joseph Kernion (Bettie) and Gerard Louis Kernion (Janie). Yvette was preceded in death by her father, Paul Sidney de Kernion, Jr., her mother, Anna Antoinette Bayhi de Kernion, and her brother Richard Joseph Kernion. She also mourned the loss of her sisters-in-law, Charlene Kernion (Gerard) and Marie Kernion (Richard). Yvette is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly.

A visitation will be held in her honor on September 4, 2025, at Saint Joseph Abbey in St. Benedict, Louisiana, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a Mass at 2:00 PM celebrated by her longtime friend, Abbot Justin Brown, O.S.B. A reception will be held at the Saint Joseph Abbey Retreat Center immediately following the graveside service.

Yvette Louise de Kernion O'Rourke will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her family, her commitment to serving others, and the joy and laughter she brought into the lives of those who were lucky enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations being made in her memory to Saint Joseph Abbey.