Donald Christopher Gonzalez, Sr.

Donald Christopher Gonzalez, Sr., age 63, born on November 25, 1961, in New Orleans, LA, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

Donald built a career as a skilled fence installer, a job he took great pride in and truly loved for more than twenty years. His work reflected his character, strong and dependable. Donald loved to spend his free time either on the river, shooting a game of pool, or at a gathering with all his friends and family.

Donald was preceded in death by his mother, Billie L. Ladner; fathers, Matthew E. Ladner II and Jose J. Gonzalez; grandparents, Henry and Virgie Fernandez; and grandson, Bayley Christopher Hartney.

Donald leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Jewell E. Gonzalez and children, Kristina (Justin) McKinley, LaChrishna (Kevin) Barber, Donald C. Gonzalez, Jr., and Jason Penton; as well as his companion, Deanna Mares and children, Christina Gentry, Chelsey Mares, and Caleb Mares. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Anthony Hartney II, Cayden Hartney, Landyn Hartney, Jaiden Atwater, Jacobi McKinley, Olivia Barber, Anna Marie Barber, Eijah Barber, Samuel Barber, Clarity Mae Barber, Jadon Penton, and Kylie Delaneuville; brothers, Matthew “Buddy” E. (Tracy) Ladnier III and Quentin Ladnier; and sisters, Marissa Atwell, Virgie Ladnier Saucier, Tammy (Earl) Rocco, Mona Lisa (Vic) Jones, and Angelique “Angie” (Alan) Byrd. Donald will also be remembered by a very dear friend, who was like a brother to him, Shannon Sweany and family, as well as Michael Keenum and family, and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Donald leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love, and unforgettable memories. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Donald Christopher Gonzalez, Sr.