Jay Paul Roussel Sr

Jay Paul Roussel, Sr. entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at the age of 87. He is survived by Dottie Pellegrin Roussel, his beloved wife of 66 years, daughters Kathleen Burke (Ken), Dottie Lee Richard (Clay) and Mary Ann Pena (Angel), and sons Jay Paul Jr. (Stacey), Arthur (Robin) and Rusty (Jena), and 16 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his much-loved siblings, Margaret Vizzi (the late Ferdinando), Joan Breaux (Gary), Joy Patin (the late Richard), and Optimer J Roussel, Sr. (Mary). He is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Joseph and Esperance Jeanne Roussel, and daughter-in-law, Karen Poole Roussel. He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, cousins and many good friends.
Jay Paul was born in New Orleans on January 17, 1933 and lived his entire life in Gretna. He was self-employed for most of his life but found his true calling after retiring in helping to support his beloved St. Anthony Catholic Church. He and Dottie were Eucharistic Ministers, RCIA sponsors, pastoral council members and worked tirelessly with other parishioners on their annual Spring Bonanza fundraiser.
Jay Paul lived his life with an unwavering devotion to God and his family. He leaves with us a lasting example of what it means to serve God and His Church, and how to love his family every single day. Relatives, friends and parishioners of St. Anthony and St. Joseph Parish are invited to attend visitation at St. Anthony Church, 924 Monroe St., Gretna, La, on Monday, December 14, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A Memorial Mass will follow at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be in Westlawn Memorial Park, 1225 Whitney Ave., Gretna, LA. Due to COVID 19, there will be no gathering after the services and everyone must wear masks. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jay Paul to St. Anthony Church. Family and friends may view and sign the online guest book at www.mothefunerals.com .