Jean Scheuering Lanzetta Rice, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus Christ surrounded by her loving family on December 19, 2024 at the age of 85. She is survived by her five children, Kristy Lanzetta, Lesley Lanzetta Mateer (Craig), Donald Rice, Jr. (Virginia), Eric Rice and Alex Rice; her grandchildren, Travis Rice, Chelsea Rice, Madeline Mateer Johnson (Joe), Macy Mateer and Max Mateer; her sister, Glenda LaRocca (A.J); her nieces and nephews, Steve Ingram (Amy) and Scott Ingram (Jennifer), Robin McConnell (Bill), Marc LaRocca (Robin) and Michelle LaRocca; and her brother-in-law, LaMarr Ingram, who passed away just a couple of days after her.
Jean was the wife of the late Capt. Anthony J. Lanzetta, USAF, and the late Donald R. Rice, USMC. She is preceded in death by her beloved husbands; her parents, Ray and Helen Scheuering; and her twin sister, Joan Ingram.
Born in New Orleans, Jean spent her early years at West Point where her father served as Assistant Athletic Director and professor at the U.S. Military Academy. After graduating from St. Joseph’s Academy, Jean attended Louisiana State University, where she earned her degree in 1962 and was a proud member of Delta Zeta sorority. She loved her LSU Tigers, her Rummel Raiders and St. Clement of Rome Parish.
A true Southern Belle, she was elegant, strong and graceful. Jean was a lifelong champion of New Orleans culture and a beacon of civic and philanthropic dedication.
She was involved in many charitable and civic organizations and was President of the New Orleans Opera Women’s Guild, where she helped preserve the legacy of America’s oldest opera house. She served as President of the Republican Women’s Club of Jefferson Parish, Cancer Crusaders and East Jefferson General Hospital Ladies’ Auxiliary. Jean was named a “Woman of Fashion” for her style and her dedication to charitable causes and received the East Jefferson General Hospital Auxiliary Great Lady Award. She was involved with Catholic Charities where she was a member of the Board of Access Pro-Life Services.
Jean served as Development Director for Archbishop Rummel High School, where her sons attended, and was named an honorary alumna for her service. She was also a member of the Regional Board of Directors for the University of Notre Dame.
A devoted parishioner of St. Clement of Rome Church, Jean's Catholic faith and love of God were the cornerstones of her life. She prayed The Rosary daily and cherished her role as a mother and grandmother, hosting family gatherings filled with love, laughter, and her signature New Orleans hospitality.
Jean was loved by many and will be deeply missed. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral service at St. Clement of Rome Church on Saturday, January 4, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Archbishop Rummel High School Scholarship Fund or St. Clement of Rome Church.
Arrangements handled by Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home and Cemeteries.
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