WILMINGTON — A native of New Iberia, Louisiana and a resident of Wilmington, N.C., Mary Lou Courrege Ohashi died Sunday, February 4, 2024, at her residence with her husband at her side.
Born in New Iberia, LA on Oct 11, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Errol and Amelia (Carstens) Courrege.
She had an undergraduate degree in bacteriology and a master’s degree in microbiology. Dr. Courrege graduated from the Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans in 1982.
Mary Lou married microbiologist Dr. David Ohashi in 1986. They loved to discuss microbiology with each other and even wrote medical articles together.
In 1987 they settled in Wilmington, N.C. where she had her own dermatology practice. Later, she also owned a small store called Provence in Wilmington, which showcased her love of all things French. Her love of travel and learning were lifelong passions.
An avid gardener, she transformed all of her yards into beautiful landscapes. This love of plants did raise attention once when she lived in New Orleans, and as a medical student, was given old blood from the blood bank, which she happily fed to her plants. Until the one day it caused a great commotion by dripping off her balcony and onto the streets below.
She is survived by her husband, Dr. David Ohashi of Wilmington, N.C. (Army Lt. Col., Retired.), a brother, Joseph Courrege (Sharon) of Colorado Springs, Colorado, step-daughters, Anita Ohashi, Mary Ohashi, a granddaughter, Page Kanagy, nieces, Rebecca Courrege, Tammy Bias and her wonderful, sweet cat, Sally.
Memorial services for Mary Lou Courrege Ohashi, 86, will be held later this spring. The family will receive visitors from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Andrews Valley Chapel.
Mary Lou was a very giving person and donated to many wonderful charities. So, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.
Thank you to all her friends and family for their wonderful support and sympathy. Also, many thanks to her caring, compassionate caregivers and hospice team.
