Johnny Provenza, age 97, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 22, 2020. Johnny was born in Cefalù, Italy to the late Vincenzo and Giovanna Cicero Provenza. He grew up and worked on his family’s farm before immigrating to the United States in 1949, where he established his career at People’s Grocery in New Orleans, Louisiana. Johnny was a true man of faith and was strongly devoted to the Blessed Mother. He attended daily Mass, often assisting as a Eucharistic Minister, served weekly at the Adoration Chapel, and prayed the Rosary regularly. He also made frequent trips to the Manresa Retreat House.
Johnny was a member of the Serra Club, Knights of Columbus, St. Pius Men’s Club, and he served as an officer in the Cefalutana Società. Johnny loved talking with his customers at the grocery and visiting friends. He also enjoyed working in his garden, where he grew numerous fruits and vegetables. Visitors frequently left his house with a bag full of fresh produce!
Johnny is preceded in death by his wife, Sara Incaprera Provenza; his parents, Vincenzo and Giovanna Cicero Provenza; his daughter-in-law, Sheila Provenza; his brothers, Rev. Antonio Provenza, Francisco Provenza, Salvatore Provenza, and Fra. Tarcisio Provenza O.F.M., a Franciscan brother; and his mother-in-law, Mimi Incaprera.
He is survived by his sons, Vincent Provenza and Frank Provenza; his granddaughters, Kristen Provenza and Kerri Provenza; his great-granddaughters, Katherine and Allison; his sister, Sara Provenza; his brother-in-law, Dr. Frank Incaprera; his sister-in-law, Charline Provenza; and numerous relatives in New Orleans, Louisiana and Cefalù, Italy.
The family would like to thank the staff at Vista Shores Assisted Living who took exceptional care of Johnny this past year.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass to be held at St. Pius X Church on Monday, October 26, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. until Mass. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to New Orleans Catholic Charities at www.ccano.org/donate-bb/
The family invites you to express your fond thoughts, memories and condolences online at lakelawnmetairie.com.
DONATIONS
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18