Stephen J. Rome Jr.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 18 years, Carolyn (Ford) Rome, proud mother Socorro (Bourbon) Rome, daughter Kirsten (Hokanson) Rios, and stepson Matthew Sperry. He was a special “Pepere” to grandchildren Raya, Benjamin, Rosali and Linnea. Brother to Darlene Boyne (husband Don), Sonia Coppock (husband Curt), Geraldine Airriess (husband Chris); Brother-in-law to Cynthia Ayers (husband Larry), Daniel Ford (wife Theresa), Nancy Heller, Mary Kay Austiff (husband Tim) and Robert Ford. Special uncle to seventeen nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father Stephen J. Rome, Sr., and sister Anna Rome.

Steve was a life-long Louisianan, born in Vacherie and raised in Metairie. After graduating from Louisiana State University, he was a landscape architect, topping off his career as owner of SJ Rome, LLC. Since the 1990’s, his simultaneous career was as a wood craftsman, from woodturning to designing and building custom furniture. His third passion was music, from avid listening to drumming and vocalizing in a band. His grandkids were the light of his life and Pepere will be remembered for his “silly” stories, fun games and summer wood projects. He was well known for his quick wit and humor. His skillful hands created wooden treasures from concept to finished works of art. He could “talk to the animals”; his favorites were his dogs, Chienne and Ellie, and cats Raz and Mia.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life on Saturday, December 28, 2013, at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, LA, from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. On-line condolences may be posted at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.