Dr. Mary Lovenia DeCongé Watson

Dr. Mary Lovenia DeCongé Watson (also known as Vivienne), a native of Wickliffe and resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, entered eternal rest on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the age of ninety-one. She was born on October 4, 1933, to the late Adina Rodney DeCongé and Alphonse Francis DeCongé, Jr. She was the seventh of nine children. She spent most of her life working to serve her church, her community and the teaching profession.

Lovenia was a member of the Sisters of the Holy Family from 1949 to 1976. She remained active in the life of her Parish, Immaculate Conception Church. She also held the distinction of Professor Emeritus of Mathematics at Southern University until her death.

Lovenia met Roy F. Watson, and they were married in 1983. Together, they traveled the world, touching the lives of countless family members, friends, and strangers along the way. Following his passing in 2014, she remained devoted to service, dedicating her time and energy—especially to causes supporting and uplifting young people.

Left to cherish her memory are her four stepchildren - Devonseldet Foy McGowen, Lateef Rhodes, Roy F. Watson, Jr, and Wallace Vigee; several step-grandchildren; her brother-in-law, Edgar Williams; three sisters-in-law - Delrine DeCongé, Brenda Durden, and Gwen Doaks; twenty-two devoted and loving nieces and nephews; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, relatives, and friends.

Lovenia was preceded in death by her husband Roy; by her parents; her sisters Elnora Hutcherson, Albertha Bartholomew, Regina Bartholomew, Laura Broussard, and Estelle Neal; her brothers Alphonse DeCongé II, Nolen DeCongé, and Alvin DeCongé; and several nieces and nephews.

Relatives, friends, and all whose lives were touched by her are warmly invited to attend the Celebration of Life Christian Mass on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2250 Main Street, Baton Rouge, LA 70802. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will be private.

We especially welcome the Pastor, officers and members of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Faculty and Staff of Louisiana State University, St. Louis University, Loyola University, and Southern University; Gamma Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc; Sigma Xi, National Honorary Society for Scientists; American Mathematical Society; The Mathematical Association of America; Alpha Lambda Delta, National Honorary Society for Women; Alpha Mu Gamma, Foreign Language Honor Society. MJR Friendly Service Funeral Home entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Information for the Donations:

SISTERS OF THE HOLY FAMILY at 6901 Chef Menteur Hwy, New Orleans, LA 70169 by mailing a check or money order made out to the sisters to their address (6901 Chef Menteur Hwy, New Orleans, LA 70169). They are unable to receive electronic payments through their website.