Joseph "Joe" Legania

In Loving Memory of Joseph (Joe) Peter John Legania.

Joseph (Joe) Peter John Legania, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, entered eternal rest on December 6, 2025.

Born in New Orleans on June 28, 1947, Joe was the seventh of nine children. He attended All Saints Elementary School where he faithfully served as an altar server. As a teenager, he moved with his sister, Myrtle, to Charleston, South Carolina, and graduated from State High School in 1967. He later relocated to Honolulu, Hawaii. His pursuit of education earned him a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Management and an MBA from Hawaii Pacific University. Joe worked a myriad of jobs throughout his life ranging from retail management to the medical field. His last position, before retirement, was an Accountant with the United States Department of Agriculture. A proud United States Air Force Veteran, Joe exemplified service and dedication.

He married and was blessed with two children–his loving daughter Kelly, born to Ivory Rideau Legania and his devoted son Jarrad, born to Samantha Charles.

He had a deep love for dogs, especially German Shepherds, and cherished his last companion, Benzo. Though a quiet man, Joe's humor and wit brought joy to those around him. He was known for his spirited football debates, often cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers while teasing Saints fans, and for his lively commentary of basketball, favoring the Detroit Pistons, but never missing a chance to weigh in on the Pelicans. These playful rivalries always sparked laughter and good-natured fun.

Joe delighted in Mardi Gras, especially riding in the NOMTOC parade. In his later years, he found comfort in prayer, listening to the rosary with the Chaplain at JoEllen Living Center each week, and occasionally joining his sister (Frances) with the All Saints Rosary Group. Joe will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his humor, his devotion to family, and his steadfast faith. His memory will live on in the hearts of his children, loved ones, and all who were blessed to know him.

He leaves to mourn, his daughter–Kelly (Larry); son–Jarrad; sisters–Myrtle, Janet, and Frances (Kenneth); brother–Rev. Dr. Raymond (Debra); sister-in-law–Joy Legania; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who cherish him. He was preceded in death by his parents–Edgar Legania Sr. and Myrtle Wheeler Legania; his brothers–Edgar Jr., Lawrence, and Harold; and his sister–Mary Legania.

Relatives; friends; and members of All Saints Catholic Church, First Free Mission Baptist Church, Costco Wholesale, International SOS, USDA, and Jo Ellen Smith Living Center, are invited to attend the funeral service on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at All Saints Catholic Church, 1441 Teche Street, New Orleans, LA 70114.

The Visitation will begin at 8:00 AM; the Tribute at 9:30 AM; and the Mass at 10:00 AM. The Interment will follow at McDonoghville Cemetery, 520 Hancock Street, Gretna, LA 70053

The Repast will be held at House of Memories Event Room at 1933 Stumpf Blvd., Ste. B, Terrytown, LA 70056.

Professional Arrangements are entrusted to Murray Henderson Funeral Home, 1209 Teche Street, New Orleans, LA 70114.