John Joseph Melito, Sr. (Jay), age 86 years, passed away peacefully at home on March, 25, 2017 surrounded by his family. Son of the late August “Gus” Melito and the late Edna Flynn Melito. Brother to the late Rev. Jack Melito C.M. and the late Rev. Gus Melito.

Jay was the proud father to Susan Melito, Gina Ragland (Pat), Jay Melito, Jr. (Deceased), Tony Melito (Davelynn) and Janet Torres (Julio). He was a doting grandfather to Adam, Ben, Carly, Billy (Brooke), Kelly, Emily, Amanda, Jeanne-Marie (John), Cali (Josh), and Michael. Great grandfather to Joey, Jake, Jessie and Aiden. Loving uncle to Diana Boylston Clark.

Jay was a graduate of Holy Cross High School. He was an active parent, PTA President in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish and was very involved in many activities as a player and coach in the CYO leagues. He was a standout 1st baseman in the Lafayette Evangeline League, Reserve Semi-Pro, and Papose Baseball Champions. Jay was also initiated as an honorary member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity at Nicholls State University, alongside his son, Tony.

Jay was a veteran of The Korean War. Following his service, he worked for NOPSI, the State of Louisiana Civil Courts, Barto Marble and Family HomeCare. The many sales positions he held throughout the years allowed him the freedom to attend lots of ballgames around the city.

“Paw-Paw J”, as he was lovingly known, was an avid sports enthusiast. He attended all the sports activities of his children, grandchildren, and great-children. He was the self-appointed fan-coach for all teams he followed. His ‘teams’ include Brother Martin, Mount Carmel Academy, Lakeshore Playground, Delta Playground, the Saints and LSU.

His many friendships included groups such as We DK Group, Friends, and the Wednesdays At Koz’s Lunch Group.

He took pride in his garden and in keeping a beautiful yard. His love of family, sports, music, and being a New Orleanian were a constant in his life. Jay was a true people person who never met a stranger.
We express deepest gratitude for the excellent care provided by Family HomeCare, Heart of Hospice, and Dorothy Miller who lovingly cared for him in his final days.

There will be a Night Wake on Tuesday, March 28, 2017 at Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM. Family and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 29, 2017 in the J. Garic Schoen Chapel of JACOB SCHOEN & SON FUNERAL HOME. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM and continue until Mass time. In lieu of flowers, Pay It Forward and donate to the charity of your choice in Jay’s honor. Interment will follow in Hope Mausoleum. Condolences may be expressed at www.schoenfh.com

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