Maria Siebert Cherbonnier

Maria Siebert Cherbonnier passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the age of 78. She was born on November 29, 1946, in New Orleans, Louisiana to Arthur Siebert and Margaret Smith Siebert. Her family later moved to Baton Rouge, and in 1964, Maria graduated from Redemptorist High School. She furthered her education by receiving her Master’s in Education from Louisiana State University. This allowed Maria to pursue her lifelong career as an educator. Her passion for teaching was evident to everyone that met her, and the impact that she had on students is immeasurable. She began teaching at her alma mater, Redemptorist High School, later becoming their assistant principal. Maria retired from Woodlawn High School. This was the culmination of over 40 years of teaching in the East Baton Rouge Public School System.

She was preceded in death by her parents. Maria is survived by daughter, Christine Cherbonnier Wesley and her husband Jeremy; and her beloved grandchildren Philip B. Wesley and Emilia A.J. Wesley. She is also survived by her brother, Arthur Siebert and his wife; as well as numerous other family and friends.

Maria faith was her peace. She was a parishioner at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church for over 50 years. The epitome of a teacher, she was confident, focused and disciplined. She exuded these traits in the classroom and outside, but her family, especially her grandchildren, knew the softer side. She loved cats, and loathed cooking! Maria contributed to numerous Catholic organizations and to local animal shelters. We find comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on through her family and former students.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, 9150 Highland Road in Baton Rouge. A Visitation will be held at the church beginning at 9:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Greenoaks Memorial Park.

For those so desiring, memorials in honor of Maria Siebert Cherbonnier may be made to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com