Donna Janata Locantro

Donna was born on April 7, 1957, in New Orleans, Louisiana, to Rita Mae Janata. She formed lifelong friendships during her years at St. Francis Xavier School and Dominican High School, remaining close with many of those friends throughout her life.

With the exception of a few years spent working in her family’s restaurant, Donna dedicated her career to working as an optician at several local optical stores, where she built many lasting friendships with coworkers and patients alike. She was a talented seamstress, loved spending time with her grandchildren, and found joy in volunteering with the Metairie Humane Society. Donna loved deeply, gave generously, and was always willing to help those around her.

In 1971, at just 14 years old, Donna met the love of her life, Raymond Locantro. They married in 1975 and, last year, celebrated 50 years of marriage together.

Donna was preceded in death by her mother, Rita Mae Janata. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Raymond Locantro; her daughters, Stephanie Coig (Neil) and Jennifer Locantro; and her cherished grandchildren, Stella and Neil Coig. She is also survived by her beloved sisters-in-law, Sarita Estes (Jerry) and Estelle Maninno; nieces Nicole Duffaut (Mark), Natalie Loup (Kevin), Connie Thrift (Jamie), and Cathy Vickers (Steve); nephew Johnny Perroncel; and a loving multitude of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who will miss her dearly.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, LA on Friday, June 12, 2026 at 1:30 PM. Visitation will take place from 11:00 AM until 1:30 PM. Interment will follow in Lake Lawn Park Mausoleum, New Orleans, LA.