When Floyd Simeon met his wife Karen growing up in New Orleans, he never would have imagined that their relationship would span decades. Not only did they begin dating in high school, but they both also had prominent careers and raised three successful children through 48 years of marriage. It was a self described charmed life for Floyd. But when Karen passed away five years ago, it left a hole in the heart of the family.

Strong faith and empathy for all played a formidable part in the Simeon household over the years. Following Karen’s passing, Floyd found comfort and solace knowing that both of their legacies would continue to be felt within the community because they had set up a planned gift to benefit Catholic Charities as part of its latest initiative, the
Legacy Society.

The Legacy Society is a planned giving venture created to honor Catholic Charities’ centennial year and its century of service. Not only does it serve as a way to recognize and celebrate those individuals who have included Catholic Charities in their will or in another form of a planned gift, but it is also a meaningful reminder of the commitment of others to sustain the future of Catholic Charities for the next 100 years.

This is one of the most meaningful ways individuals can give back to the place that means so much to them.

“When Karen was still here, we decided to give a large part of our estate to both the church and the poor through
Catholic Charities. We were fortunate in our lives, and after doing some research, we decided we could help out those in need while still providing for our own family,” Floyd said.

Memories can often serve as a loved one’s most unwavering legacy. Whether the Simeons and their three beloved children were traveling to different parts of the world, enjoying Karen’s delicious cooking or watching movies during their downtime on the weekend, every milestone in the household revolved around the quality of family spending time together.

By telling the stories of people like the Simeons, who were inspired by Catholic Charities to leave a tangible part of themselves to those in need, it is hoped that it will open the door to conversations in your family about what your legacy will be.

To be anonymously included in the Legacy Society or for more information, contact Samuel Rottman at [email protected].