In memory of Julia Jeannette “JJ” Piazza Guastella born December 23, 1933 until leaving this earth November 10,2023, age 89. She grew up Houston, TX and lived coast to coast, finally settling in Barksdale / Shreveport / Bossier City, Louisiana. She preferred to be called by her middle name, Jeannette, and/or her initials, J.J.
Jeannette was the middle child of Robert Piazza, a Sicilian immigrant, and Elizbeth Graham of Jonesboro, AR. Raised with her older brother Bobby and her baby brother Raymond as devout Catholics; she remained strong in her faith throughout her life. Growing up during the Depression and World War II instilled virtues and values that were readily reflected in her character.
After graduating from Milby High School Jeannette worked for an insurance firm in downtown Houston. She met an Air Force officer-in-training at a dance whom she married and had four children. As a military spouse she had to be both mother and father during the many separations that are part of life in the armed forces. Relocation was common and the places she called home included California, Washington, Texas, and New York. In 1967 she put down roots in Louisiana.
When all the children reached school age Jeannette began doing volunteer work at the hospital on board Barksdale Air Force Base. In recognition of her superlative service, she was given the opportunity to study as a dental assistant, for which she received a formal qualification. At age forty she began a 10-year career as a full-time dental assistant and office manager.
Jeannette was a great friend and confidante to many women, far and wide. In 1966 she organized the “Waiting Wives”, a Houston social group for women whose husbands were serving in Viet Nam. The “Barksdale Ladies” met annually every year since 1971 to share fond memories of their days as neighbors on the base. She enjoyed playing pokeno and mah-johnng as well as bowling in league play. Heading to the casino boats was a favorite girls’ day out.
After 28 years of marriage to the father of her children, Jeannette married Mike Guastella in 1982. Together they would travel extensively and were constantly on the “Go, Go, Go!” They loved to entertain and had an extensive circle of friends. Jeannette and Mike were truly a power team in the kitchen. Perhaps the greatest joy in their lives was spoiling their grandchildren.
Jeannette was preceded in death by her husband, Mike Guastella, and her son, Christopher Stevens. She is survived by her brother Raymond Piazza, her children Leo Stevens, David Stevens, Sharon Shoaf and her stepchildren Michael Guastella, Jr., Mark Guastella, Matthew Guastella, and Michele Guastella. She is grandmother to 8 children and great grandmother to 3 children.
A Mass celebrating the life of Julia Jeannette Guastella will be held Friday, November 17 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church. A visitation with the family will begin at 9:30 until 10:30 AM. A rosary and Mass will follow at 10:30 AM at the church before the service. Officiating will be Msgr Provenza. Interment will follow in Centuries Memorial Park Cemetery.
Jeannette will always live in the hearts and memories of those who knew and loved her.
