Joseph Anthony Faia Sr.

Joseph Anthony Faia, Sr, 93 years old, current resident of Abbeville, LA. passed away at home surrounded by family during prayer on Monday, April 19, 2021. He was born on August 17, 1927 in New Orleans, LA. to the former Sarah Engolia and Michael Faia, Sr. Joseph started working at an early age of 11 to support his mother and six siblings. Throughout his life he worked two and three jobs in floor covering sales and as a movie projectionist to provide for everything that his wife and six children needed.
Joseph attended St. Mary’s Italian Catholic School in the French Quarter and was taught by the Cabrini Sisters. He and several siblings then went to live at Hope Haven Catholic Orphanage in Marrero, LA. At 15 years of age, Joseph entered St. John Bosco seminary in Newton, NJ to begin preparation for the Salesian priesthood. After six years, Joseph had to return home to care of his ailing mother.
Joseph’s hobbies included anything to do with his family, volunteering at church, raising his beautiful roses and fishing. Predeceased by his parents, his sister, Sister Angela Faia, MSC,  Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart and his brother Anthony. He is Survived by Betty, his beloved wife of 68 years. His six children Joseph Faia, Jr. (Genna), Belinda Gafford (Tim),  Brent Faia, Staci Faia (Lanza), Lisa Primeaux (Carl) and Janette Groth and, 13 grandchildren-Carolyn and Bibianna Faia, Wayne Barado, Lauren Gafford, Justin Faia, Madison, Bennett and Grayson Lanza, Robert, Benjamin and Collin Primeaux, Paul and Taylor Groth, 6 great grandchildren-Brooks and Bristol Barado, Chance and Veda Gafford, Bryson and Maddie Grace Faia. Also survived by his siblings, Mike, Louis, Geri and Sal.
A Visitation will take place Friday, April 23, 2021 at St Rita Catholic Church, 7100 Jefferson Highway, Harahan, LA 70123 at 11:00 AM. Mass at noon. Burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery, 5190 Canal Boulevard. Honoring Joseph’s passion for his faith, we request masses to be said in Joseph’s name.
Donations may be sent to your preferred Catholic Church or food pantry.
A special thank you to Vee’s Sitter Service and Hospice of Acadiana for their incredible love and compassion.

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