Musette Gonzales

It is with great sadness that the family of Musette Mendelson Gonzales, age 78 of Franklin, TN announces her passing on November 21, 2022. She was born in New Orleans, LA to her parents Harry Mendelson, Sr. and Marcelle Gouze Mendelson. She was a graduate of Dominican High School in 1961 and received her BA from Dominican College in 1965.  Musette began her career as an elementary school teacher in New Orleans, LA.  Additionally, she owned and operated her own business, Mardi Gras Parade Bands, for over 40 years after taking over the business upon her father’s passing.  Musette worked with numerous Mardi Gras Krewes in the city of New Orleans including many of the largest parades in Mardi Gras such as Endymion, Iris, Hermes, and more.  Over her 40 years of work, she was responsible for bringing thousands of high school and university marching bands, marching groups and other unique groups from all over the world to participate in the New Orleans Carnival celebration.  She loved all things Mardi Gras and looked upon it fondly as her lifelong passion.  Over the course of 40 years, she became a mentor and inspiration to all who knew her. She retired in 2013 but remained very active in helping marching units showcase their talents in New Orleans. Over the years, Musette was an avid fan of Disneyworld, having visited it numerous times with her family, extended family and friends, where she created fond memories shared by many.  She lived for her children and grandchildren, and loved nothing more than spending quality time with her husband Thomas going out to eat, watching TV, or sitting on their back porch together. Musette was an inspiration and role model, whose generosity and kindness will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her childhood sweetheart and husband of 56 years, Thomas Gonzales; daughter, Michelle; son, Mark, his wife Heather and their daughter Caydence; son, Michael, his wife Christa and their sons Brayden and Mason; son, Matthew, his wife Meagan and their daughters McKenzie and Madison; and other extended family and lifelong friends.

The family would like to thank her special friend, Julia Gray, and her numerous caregivers and well-wishers, especially Yoland and Scarlett, as well as, Aveanna Hospice, all of whom tended her with great devotion.  The family will not be holding a memorial service at this time.  If desired, the family would ask for memorials to Mrs. Musette be made to The Alzheimer’s Association in her honor at www.alz.org.