Mary-Louise “Queen Mary” Schelfhaudt, a resident of New Orleans for over 30 years, departed this life for her next event on June 9, 2017 after a brief illness, at the age of 53. She was surrounded by family, friends, and her lifelong partner David “Amaretto Dave” Stephens, to whom she was deeply devoted. Mary was born in Boston, Massachusetts on February 12, 1964. She was predeceased by her father, Richard Schelfhaudt. She is survived by her mother Marie, sister Renee’, brother-in-law William “Billy” Means, sister Amy and brother-in-law Dan Meunier, the parents of nephew James Meunier and niece Nicole Meunier. She annually vacationed with her family as a member of the St. Pete’s Cousins’ Club.
   She will be sadly missed by the entire Stephens family and by many friends of Ellijay, Georgia, “Amaretto’s” hometown.
   Mary graduated from N. Andover High School in Boston, and attended the University of Massachusetts.
   She embraced, with gusto, the culture and traditions of New Orleans, particularly at Carnival time. She was a member of the Krewe of D.S.M.C.C.I. (Defenders of the Spirit of Merriment), a member and former Queen of the Krewe of Dreux (ALL HAIL!!). Along with Miss Pat, Mary was also a member of the Wonder Woman Krewe in the Intergalactic Krewe of Chewbacchus.
   Mary was a longtime employee of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, and its parent company F.P.I., as the Fair Operations Coordinator. She will be fondly remembered and missed by the entire Jazz Fest family. Mary was an eternal optimist who loved life. Her happiness was contagious as she encouraged others to excel, embracing all whom she met with generosity and respect.
   Services will be held on Thursday, June 15, 2017 at JACOB SCHOEN & SON, 3827 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA. Visitation will begin at 9:30 am with services at 11:00 am. Interment will follow in Metairie Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Shrine, 411 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA.

---

 Service Information