The vibrant community of New Orleans is mourning the loss of Kristie Thibodeaux, age 43, a cherished tour guide for Crawl New Orleans. Her untimely death on Sunday, June 30, 2024, was announced through a poignant social media post: “We at Crawl New Orleans are heartbroken to share the devastating news that our cherished tour guide, Kristie Gioe Thibodeaux, was tragically killed in the French Quarter in the early hours of Sunday morning.” In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe page has been established by her family to support them during this difficult time.
The heartbreaking incident unfolded in the early hours of Sunday, June 30, in the historic French Quarter. The New Orleans Police Department took Jerben Albarec, Joshua Aviala-Bonifacio, and a 15-year-old into custody in connection with the fatal shooting. Records reveal that Bonifacio had been released from Jefferson Parish jail earlier this year due to overcrowding. The tragic event occurred in the 700 block of St. Peter Street, where gunfire erupted. At 4:36 a.m., authorities found Kristie Thibodeaux shot and unresponsive in her car, a victim of the senseless violence.
Kristie Gioe Thibodeaux was more than a beloved tour guide; she was a treasured member of her family and community. She leaves behind her loving husband of ten years, Jase Thibodeaux. Kristie was the devoted daughter of Joseph A. Gioe and Diane P. Gioe, and a cherished sister to Lisa Doll Sahuque, Lori Doll Temple, Joseph A. Gioe, Jr., and Michael J. Gioe. Her love for animals was evident in her affection for her three living fur babies, Rubble, Sterling, and Phoebe, and she fondly remembered her two late angels, Sassy and Brolly. Kristie and Jase enjoyed taking day trips on their motorcycles, exploring new and exciting places to eat, and immersing themselves in the local culture.
Kristie was an adventurous spirit who embraced life fully. She had a deep love for great music, the vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations, and the unique charm of the French Quarter. Known affectionately by many as “Woozie Koozie,” “Kristie Bug,” and “Aunt Cookie,” she was a fearless, brassy, stylish, and bold individual who also possessed a gentle, sweet, kind, and loving soul. Kristie was always willing to lend a helping hand, and her laughter and stories brought joy to her family and friends.
Her career as a Hospitality Hostess and Tour Guide for Crawl New Orleans allowed Kristie to share her passion for the city with countless visitors. She was a student at the University of Southern Mississippi and a devout Catholic, touching many hearts with her genuine smile and loving spirit. Kristie’s impact on those who knew her was profound, and her presence will be deeply missed.
In honor of Kristie Thibodeaux, a memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, located at 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124. This gathering will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and community members to come together to celebrate her life and the joy she brought to so many.
Kristie’s legacy is one of love, adventure, and kindness. Her enthusiasm for life and her compassionate nature made her a beloved figure in her community. She was known for her fearless approach to life, her stylish presence, and her unwavering kindness. Kristie’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, reminding us all to embrace life with the same zest and compassion that she did.
As the community grieves this immense loss, they also celebrate the remarkable person Kristie was. Her ability to connect with people, her love for adventure, and her dedication to her family and friends made her an unforgettable individual. Kristie’s laughter, stories, and loving spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.
Kristie Thibodeaux’s life was tragically cut short, but her impact will be felt for years to come. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, love, and adventure that will continue to inspire and uplift her community. As her family navigates this difficult time, the support and love from friends and community members offer a measure of comfort and solace.
The sudden and senseless loss of Kristie has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and community. Her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched and the joy she brought to everyone she met. Kristie’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, the importance of community, and the beauty of living life to the fullest.
As we remember Kristie, we are reminded of the impact one person can have on the world. Her love for life, her compassionate nature, and her adventurous spirit are qualities that will continue to inspire those who knew her. Although she is no longer with us, Kristie Thibodeaux’s spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of all who loved her.
In honoring Kristie’s memory, we celebrate a life well-lived and a person who made a profound difference in the lives of many. Her legacy of love, kindness, and adventure will continue to inspire and uplift her community. Kristie Thibodeaux’s light will continue to shine brightly, reminding us all of the beauty of a life lived with love and compassion.
