Margaret Amanda "Mandy" Krucks

Oh, Mandy, you came and you gave without taking...Margaret Amanda “Mandy” Krucks departed this life in the arms of her mother, Judge Margaret Alfonso, and her Aunt Carlene at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans. Her beloved Daddy Cono was waiting for her in Heaven with open arms.

Mandy was born with multiple health issues, and it took a village to get her to age 45. Margaret would like to thank that wonderful and loving village: Dr. Harriet Murphy, Colodia Stewart, Marie Johnston, Dimple Breazeale, the Killegrews, the incredible staff at Magnolia Community Services; and last, but not least, her loving grandparents, Carl and Tommye Alfonso.

Mandy was so blessed to have Ochsner physician Sara Fernandez, MD, come into her life. Dr. Fernandez began caring for Mandy, and eventually, everyone in Mandy’s orbit. Margaret would also like to recognize the extraordinary care and competence of the medical team at Neuro ICU Ochsner, in particular Dr. Michael Pepper who tried so hard to save Mandy.

Mandy enjoyed music, dancing, “PBS KIDS” and playing with Mardi Gras beads. She was a proud recipient of a Certificate of Completion from Gulfport High School. Her special ed teacher, Cheryl York, remained in contact with Margaret and Mandy throughout Mandy’s lifetime. Special Ed teachers really are so special.

Margaret would like to thank her Chancery Court family, especially Jill, and Jeannie and the Friends of Court Volunteers, not only for their love and prayers for Mandy, but also for their dedication and compassion for all children.

Margaret also wishes to thank her beloved GHS Class of ‘68 for their friendship and support. Unlike many moms for the Class of ‘68, Margaret never had to confront her youngster sneaking a cigarette at 15, trying to buy a 6-pack of beer at 16, crawling out of a window in the middle of the night, or getting drafted. Mandy was the perfect child.

Mandy was preceded in death by her loving stepfather, Cono A. Caranna II and her grandparents. Mandy was an only child and an only grandchild. She is survived by her mother; her aunt, Carlene Alfonso and husband Walter Ketchings; her stepsister, Katie Caranna Kravette and husband Eric; and Cono Caranna III and wife Sue. Mandy is also survived by her lifelong friends, Judy and Andy Sawyer and Bonnie Blackledge.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Mandy’s memory to Magnolia Community Services New Van Fund. Magnolia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving adults with disabilities.

Magnolia Community Services, Inc. 100 Central Avenue Jefferson, LA 70121 504-733-2874

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, December 12, 2025, at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 1726 15th Street, Gulfport, MS with Pastor Tony Karnes officiating. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Bradford-Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is honored to serve the Alfonso family.