Joseph Robert Romero, age 88, of New Iberia, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at his residence on Saturday, December 7, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 21, 1936, to the late Edmar and Dulcide Romero, Joseph lived a life full of dedication, service, and love for his family and community.
Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, earning the respect and admiration of all who knew him. After 22 years of honorable service, he retired and returned home to continue his dedication to hard work. He worked as the Director of Maintenance at Iberia Medical Center and also spent 25 years employed by the Woodmen of the World Youth Camp, leaving a lasting impact through his work and leadership.
A man of exceptional work ethic, Joseph passed down the values of diligence and perseverance to his children and grandchildren. Outside of his professional life, he was known for his love of cooking. Joseph was an excellent cook, sharing his talents with friends at the local Gourmet Club and Woodmen of the World.
Joseph had a deep love for his family and cherished his time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family was always at the center of his life, and he made sure to instill in them the importance of strong relationships and hard work. In his free time, he enjoyed watching Western movies on television and spending time at the casino, but it was always his family who brought him the greatest joy.
Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 33 years, Virginia “Jenny” Sumrall Romero; two children, Wanda R. Schaubert, and husband Jody and Daniel J. Romero; six grandchildren, Lacie Domingue and husband Dan; Amber Romero; Randi Romero; Haley Belvins; Sierra Bourque and husband Keith and Tyler J. Romero; seventeen great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren and one on the way; one brother, Steve Romero, and wife Debbie and one sister, Rita Fritz, and husband Chester.
Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by one son, Robert J. Romero; one great-grandchild, Ryder Bourque; one great-great-grandchild, Ezra Ronsonet and one brother, Leo Romero.
Funeral services celebrating Joseph’s life will be held on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Evangeline Funeral Home with Fr. Anslem officiating. Joseph will be laid to rest at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Cemetery in Coteau, with military honors by the US Navy and the Acadiana Veterans Honor Guard.
A gathering of family and friends will be held on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, from 9:00 am until time of service at Evangeline Funeral Home.
Honored to serve as pallbearers are Brennan LaPorte, M’Kel Romero, Dre Romero, Dan LaPorte, David Fritz, and Bryson Romero. Jody Schaubert, Tyler Romero, Daniel Romero, Gerald Sumrall, and Steve Sumrall are honorary pallbearers.
Family and friends are encouraged to share their memories and condolences with the family by visiting Joseph’s memorial page at www.evangelinenewiberia.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.
