Vincent Joseph Taravella, Jr., of Algiers, passed away peacefully on February 24. A native of Jefferson Parish, and life-long resident of Greater New Orleans, Vincent was a graduate of Holy Name of Mary School in Algiers and Southeastern Louisiana University and the retired former director and 30-year employee of the Office of Research & Budget Analysis of Jefferson Parish. Vincent was a former member of the Italian-American Federation of the Southeast and a charter member of the Italian-American Society of Jefferson Parish, of which he twice served as president, and a regular attendee of retreats at Manresa House. Preceded in death by his father, Vincent Joseph Taravella, Sr., his mother, Cusimina Vicari Taravella, and brothers Santo and Carlo, he is survived by his wife, Bonnie Gordy Taravella, and son Christopher. Vincent will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his humor, his love and his kindness.
Visitation will take place from 8:30-10:15 AM followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM on Thursday, March 3, at St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church in Old Gretna. Interment will follow at Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery. Family, friends, employees of Jefferson Parish, members of the Italian-American Society of Jefferson, and the Manresa community are invited to attend. Masks are required. All attendees must wear their face masks during the duration of the Visitation and Funeral Mass. MOTHE FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family during this difficult time. Donations in his name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children are appreciated.