VJ was truly a jack of all trades, a man whose talents were matched only by his generosity and kind heart. He had a gift for bringing things to life, whether tending a flourishing garden, casting a line on the water where he found peace and joy, or building with his own hands. An exceptional carpenter, he constructed his own home and shed, crafted rigging for a local shrimp boat, and contributed to important community projects, including the local flood gates. He was generous to a fault, always ready to lend a helping hand, and remained a true gentleman throughout his life, holding fast to his chivalrous nature even in his final days. VJ's quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and love of making others laugh made him the "fun parent" and the heart of every family gathering. His warmth, selflessness, and ability to make everyone feel welcome will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Those left to cherish VJ's wonderful memory are his five children, Alan Justilian and his wife, Veronica, Ann LeBlanc and her husband, Todd, Mark Justilian and his wife, Tiffanie, Maria Landry and her husband, Kory, and Mary Hidalgo and her husband, Jared; 20 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. He is also survived by two siblings, Ronald Justilian and his wife, Jeannie, and Carolyn Borne and her husband, Richard.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Roberta Verret; his second wife, Verna White; his parents, Verney Justilian Sr. and Mildred Pennison Justilian; and his siblings, Clarence Justilian and Donald Justilian.
A memorial visitation will be held for VJ on Friday, July 31, 2026 from 8:00am until 9:30am at the St. Bernadette Catholic Church hall in Bayou Vista. After visitation, a rosary will be held beginning at 9:30 am at St. Bernadette Catholic Church with a Mass of Christian burial following at 10:00am. Father Connor Poirrier will preside over the services.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Hope Hospice and the clergy of St. Bernadette Catholic Church (Fr. Poirrier) and St. Andrew Catholic Church (Fr. Alex and Fr. Joe) for their care and assistance.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hargrave Funeral Home of Morgan City, Louisiana.
