Joan Capro Rogers

Joan Capro Rogers, a lifelong resident of New Orleans who grew up in the Irish Channel passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, at the age of 84, following a courageous battle with dementia. Joan was born on July 9, 1942. She graduated from Redemptorist High School in 1960. She was preceded in death by her parents Peter Francis (Frank) Capro and Virginia Sheldon Capro. Joan is survived by Gene, her beloved husband of 61 years; her son Stephen (Holly); and her two granddaughters Brooke (Garrett), and Skye who were the joy of her life. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Ann Rogers Calongne (Terry); her brother-in-law, Robert A. Rogers (Arlene); and numerous nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Joan possessed a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit. Early in her married life, she worked for the US Government at Lakefront Airport. In 1980 Joan and Gene founded York Construction Co., Inc., a heavy construction business. As President of the corporation, Joan played an integral role in its management and success.

Over time, Joan became increasingly involved in real estate, forming five LLC’s through which she bought and sold properties and invested in mortgage financing. Her fairness, honesty, and integrity earned her the respect of clients, competitors, and colleagues alike. To many she was simply known as “Miss Joan”.

Joan’s calm and kind personality touched everyone who knew her. Although she was a strong and successful businesswoman, she was equally known for her compassionate heart. She never hesitated to help someone facing difficult times. If a tenant struggled to make a rent or mortgage payment, Joan was always willing to work with them, provided they were honest about their circumstances. She often remembered her tenant’s children with birthday and Christmas gifts, quietly spreading kindness wherever she could.

Among Joan’s greatest joys were spending time with her granddaughters and immediate family, entertaining family and friends at her home in Metairie, and at her boathouse at Orleans Marina, and traveling with Gene.

Together they explored many places around the world, visited many of America’s premier vacation destinations and national parks, and took numerous cruises, including transatlantic voyages, European river cruises, and trips to many international destinations. Joan and Gene also enjoyed several cruises and road trips with Stephen, Holly, Brooke, and Skye creating many cherished family memories.

Joan will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her, especially her devoted family.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Passages Hospice for their exceptional care and kindness. They also wish to express sincere appreciation to Joan’s private caregivers, Chantelle Webb and Mabel Barrera for their loving, professional, and dedicated care.

In lieu of flowers, consider donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Lake Lawn Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd New Orleans, LA. Visitation will begin at 12:00 noon.