Leonarda “NaNa” Tommaseo Gioe was embraced in God’s love on Friday, October 11, 2019 at the age of 93. She was the cherished wife of the late Calogero “Carlo” Gioe. Loving mother of Josie Gioe O’Brien. Mother-in-law of the late Mike O’Brien. Sister of Francesca Navarino, Thomas Tommaseo, Liboria Gioe and the late Rocco “Rocky” Tommaseo. NaNa was the proud grandmother of Scott O’Brien and Dina Carbello who assisted their mother Josie, with loving care of NaNa. Great grandmother of Roman Appel and the late Carlo Carbello, Joshua Dullary and Alexandra “Ally” Short. She is also survived and fondly remembered by many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
NaNa was born in Alcamo, Sicily, Italy and has been a lifelong resident of St. Bernard Parish.
In NaNa’s world there were only two things – her family and her restaurant, where she’d regularly work 12 to 14 hours a day to keep the customers happy and coming back for more. Rocky and Carlo’s was her love, her joy and her legacy. Her restaurant was opened in 1965 by the Tommaseo and Gioe families. Her tireless work helped it grow from a neighborhood joint to the established landmark it enjoys today. Politicians, sports players, celebrities, locals and well-travelled foodies knew her by name and frequently asked for her during their visits with hugs and kisses. NaNa was always flattered by the attention she received over the years, humbled by the hundreds of people that wanted a picture with the St. Bernard famous lady.
NaNa was rescued from the flood waters of hurricane Katrina on a jet ski, but she left reluctantly. Aside from her family, Rocky and Carlos was her life. Leaving it behind after Katrina was one of the most depressing points of her life. However, she was determined to rebuild the restaurant and return it to its glory for all to enjoy. Two-and-a-half years later, the day the restaurant re-opened and NaNa was right back in that kitchen – and her familiar glow returned.
In 2014 NaNa was recognized and honored by the St. Bernard Business and Professional Women during National Business Women's Week as a role model of working women who live and/or work in St. Bernard Parish. She proudly served as Queen of the Italian American Parade the same year her brother Tommy served as King.
NaNa still missed her beloved husband Carlo who passed away in 1995. Her cherished work in her kitchen is now done. She was well loved and will be deeply missed by all those she touched. We quietly rejoice that she’s now embraced in God’s love and once again in the arms of her beloved husband Carlo and with her grandson Carlo and great grandchildren Joshua and Ally. Special thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of St. Bernard Parish Hospital – Ochsner for NaNa’s excellent care.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation to be held at ST. BERNARD MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, 701 W. Virtue St., Chalmette, LA on Monday, October 21, 2019 from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, followed by a Funeral Mass in NaNa’s memory beginning at 1:00 PM. She will be laid to rest in St. Bernard Memorial Gardens.
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