Geraldine "Gerri" Scolaro Abbott

Geraldine “Gerri” Scolaro Abbott, a remarkable woman, passed away peacefully at the Carrollton Senior Living Facility on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at the age of 81. Born in Tampa, FL, she was the daughter of the late Dr. Joseph Domenico Scolaro and Louise Giuffria Scolaro. Gerri spent her formative years on Davis Island in Tampa, FL, where she was the youngest of three siblings. She attended the Girls Academy of the Holy Names in Tampa before graduating from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. Later, she settled in the New Orleans area after college and married John Abbott. Together, they founded Abbott Tours, which quickly rose to prominence as one of the top travel agencies in New Orleans. In 1984, Gerri embarked on a new adventure, working at the World’s Fair in New Orleans, where she booked parties. She later transitioned to Pete Fountain Productions to further that career. After retiring from her successful party planning career, she found solace in her beach house in Pensacola, FL, where she warmly welcomed friends and family. The beach held a special place in her heart, evoking memories of her childhood in Tampa.
Gerri’s passion for travel led her to explore the world and its wonders. In her early twenties, she traveled through Europe, forging lifelong friendships along the way. Despite her global adventures, her unwavering priority was always family. She cherished family dinners and gatherings, especially with her son, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, and the Guiffria cousins.
Among her hobbies, Gerri enjoyed playing bridge at the Bridge Center, tending to her garden, and attending shows and plays at the Saenger Theater or Tulane Summer Lyrics.
Gerri was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Joseph and Louise Scolaro; as well as her sister, Beverly Ann Caravella; and her brother, Reginald Joseph Scolaro. She is survived by her son, Ashley “Ash” James Abbott (Kelley); and her beloved grandchildren, Madeline Jane Abbott and Parker Dugan Abbott.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Services at Garden of Memories Funeral Home & Cemetery, 4900 Airline Drive Metairie, LA 70001 on Monday, April 8, 2024. Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm with a Mass starting at 2:00 pm. Following the Mass, a celebration of life where all are welcome will be held at Ash and Kelley’s home, 1455 Calhoun St. New Orleans, LA 70118. To order flowers or offer condolences, please visit www.gardenofmemoriesmetairie.com.

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