Ernest Lee Ourso

Ernest Lee Ourso, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, August 3, 2021, at the age of 93. He was born on January 13, 1928, in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, the son of the late Nidas J. Ourso and Hilda Barrios Ourso. Ernest was a veteran of the U.S. Army and worked for Louisiana Cypress Lumber Company for 38 years. He and Ruth have been lifelong members of St. Joseph Catholic Church where he was also an usher and a custodian for the school for many years. Ernest loved hunting, fishing, and LSU football. He was a wonderful husband and father that loved his family. Ernest leaves many happy memories for his family and friends to cherish.

Ernest is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Ruth Duplessis Ourso; children, Joan Fuselier (Keith), Audrey Ramirez (Lloyd), Rose Harper (Ricky), Paul Ourso (Vickie), Donna Pittman (CharlesWayne), Mary Alice Peterson (Jeff), Kathy Ourso (Pam), and Ernest Ourso, Jr. (Jeremy); 15 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; sister, Jeanette Rushing; brother, Sidney Ourso (Julia); and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ernest was preceded in death by his brothers, Russell, Vincent J., Freddy "T-Fred," and Jimmy Ourso.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Kendall Graffith, Kay Kay Gannon, and the staff of Cannon Hospice Group, as well as all of those that said prayers, brought food, and came to visit Ernest and the family.

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home - Ponchatoula , 100 W. Magnolia St., Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454 on Thursday, August 5, 2021 from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm. Visitation will continue at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home - Ponchatoula on Friday, August 6, 2021 from 8:00 am until 10:00 am.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 255 North 8th Street, Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454 on Friday at 11:00 am, with Rev. Paul McDuffie officiating.

Interment will follow at Ponchatoula Cemetery in Ponchatoula, Louisiana.

In lieu of flowers, please request a Mass to be said in memory of Ernest Lee Ourso or donate to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ponchatoula.

The family respectfully requests masks be worn during the visitation or service.

An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.