November 10, 1935 – April 14, 2025

Herman Joseph Abry, a lifelong resident of Harahan, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on April 14, 2025. He is remembered as a devoted family man, a community leader, and a steward of New Orleans history.

Devoted Husband, Father, and Grandfather

Herman is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Louise Makofsky Abry; his daughter, Emily A. Barre’, and her husband, Daniel Barre’; and his son, Herman Gregory (Greg) Abry, and his wife, Michelle B. Abry. He was the proud grandfather of Alyssa Barre’ Bourgeois, Julia Barre’ Reuther, Monique Abry Knoepfler, Thomas Abry, and Patrick Abry, and the cherished great-grandfather of Brady Bourgeois, Bryce Bourgeois, James Reuther, Casey Reuther, Adrian Reuther, and Vivienne Abry. He is also survived by his brothers, George Abry and John Abry, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Herman was preceded in death by his parents, Herman Andrew Abry and Carmel Buisson Abry; his siblings Carmel A. Patterson, Ann A. McGehee, and Edgar Abry.

Legacy of Leadership

A graduate of St. Dominic School and Warren Easton High School, Herman attended Loyola University and served eight years in the U.S. Naval Submarine Reserve as a Torpedoman Second Class.

He was the fifth-generation leader and former president of Abry Brothers, Inc., a New Orleans institution specializing in shoring, leveling, and elevating structures. His notable contributions included the 1964 relocation of the historic Pitot House and critical recovery efforts after Hurricane Betsy in 1965. Herman’s work played a vital role in preserving New Orleans’ architectural heritage and earned him deep respect among engineers and contractors.

Community & Faith

Herman lived a life of quiet service. He was deeply involved in his church and community, including roles as:

  • President of the St. Mary’s Dominican High School Parents Club (1978–79)
  • Board Member of the Associated Building Contractors
  • Lieutenant in the Krewe of Eros
  • Active parishioner at St. Rita of Cascia Church in Harahan, where he served as Lector, Sacristan, Eucharistic Minister, and volunteer with the St. Vincent de Paul Society
  • Member of the Knights of Columbus Council #3854

A man of reflection and faith, Herman was a member of Manresa Group #38 and attended annual retreats at Manresa House of Retreats for 34 consecutive years. In 2006, he received the St. Louis Medallion from the Archdiocese of New Orleans in recognition of his service to the Church.

Remembering a Life Well Lived

Herman’s life was defined by devotion—to his family, faith, community, and the city of New Orleans. He was a man of strength, integrity, and compassion, admired by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his physicians and loving caregivers: Lindsey, Gaynell, Latricia, Jasmine, and Fran.