Samuel Joseph "S.J." Cerniglia

Samuel Joseph “S.J.” Cerniglia, age 81, passed away on Sunday, March 7, 2021. He was born on May 19, 1939. S.J. was the son of Joseph Vincent Cerniglia and Mary Giustiniana Cerniglia of Algiers, Louisiana, who preceded him in death.

S.J. had a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. He owned and operated numerous premier and festive hospitality institutions and could be found greeting his guests on any given night. Some of his more famous establishments included the 4141 club, Stephen and Martin’s restaurant, Fat Harry’s, Lucky Pierre’s, The Civic, Friar Tucks and the VIP Lounge at the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair. He also loved Mardi Gras and reigned as the first King of Tucks in the Krewe of Tucks organization.

The highlight of S.J.’s life occurred in 1993 when he married his long-time sweetheart, Junel Barrois. Together they traveled extensively and created a beautiful home in the historic Garden District. They also spent innumerable hours entertaining and cooking for their loving friends and families. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

S.J. was well known for his warm demeanor and his irreverent sense of humor, always generating hours of laughter from those in his company.

S.J. is survived by his loving wife, Junel Barrois Cerniglia; his sister and only sibling for whom he had much affection, Lynn Cerniglia Giordano (fiancée, Russell Pearson); his two nieces, Toni Giordano Hurley (Grady) and Bari Giordano Blanks; his sisters-in-law, Carmen Barrois Billiot (David), Bari Barrois Arnona (Michael) and Pam Barrois; two great-nephews and a great-niece; and, his consummate companion, Lily, a beautiful Portuguese Water Dog, who had no idea she was a dog.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, services and interment in Metairie Cemetery will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in S.J.’s memory to the LASPA: give.louisianaspca.org or The Human Society: www.humanesociety.org.

The family invites you to express your fond thoughts, memories and condolences online at lakelawnmetairie.com.