Willis Joseph Eurissa Sr.

Willis Joseph Eurissa, Sr. was born on October 31st, 1946 in New Orleans and passed away peacefully from this earthly life on April 4th, 2020. A longtime resident of Metairie, he was the husband of Lynda Miller for almost 48 years; the father of Joe, Jr. and Alice; the father-in-law of Lorie & Nathan; grandfather of Katie (Jathan), Ross, & Lydia; and the apple of their eyes to his dogs Gigi & the late Reese.

Despite being an orphan, he overcame many obstacles in life and was determined to serve his country in the U.S. Navy. Later as a civilian, Joe, as everyone called him, became a master carpenter, builder, & remodeling professional & shared his craft by teaching others. Even when he wasn’t working, he saw the beauty in the broken or discarded & skillfully could take someone else’s trash and turn it into a treasure. He had a knack for understanding how things worked & was often fixing a tv or computer for someone or reconditioning one for himself. He had a great interest in fishing & boating & loved a good comedy or science fiction flick or tv show. “Star Trek” and “Big Bang Theory” were favorites as was the music of Jim Croce. A self-taught artist, he sketched many of his family members & showed his talent in drawing most anything.

The last 19 years, he dedicated his time to his family & small tinkering projects. A life-long learner of history & science, his most recent interest was politics for which he had incredible enthusiasm. He enjoyed becoming versed in many subjects, and although he was a more private, quiet person, he would become quite animated when it came to current events. Joe was a humble person and shied away from the limelight. He was very proud of his children and grandchildren and was a doting husband especially in his later years. Joe will always be remembered for caring for others, his generosity, and his love for his family. He will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Rd Suite 300 Jacksonville, FL 32256.

Funeral services and burial will be private.

To view and sign the family guest book, please visit lakelawnmetairie.com