Anthony Joseph "Aj" Beatrice

Anthony Joseph “A. J.” Beatrice, 97, of Lake Charles, LA, died at 3:31 PM on Monday, June 4, 2018 in his residence.

Mr. Beatrice was born September 15, 1920 in Watertown, MA. He served in the National Guard until called to active duty and proudly served with the U.S. Army Air Corp, where he was honorably discharged as a Captain. He then served in the Air Force Reserves until 1956. He met and married Valda Marie Newman while working at PPG. Mr. Beatrice worked for thirty-nine years for PPG, retiring in 1985 as Transportation Manager. He enjoyed playing racquet ball, golfing, woodworking, listening to music, and was an avid reader. He also loved to travel and see the world. Mr. Beatrice was wise in his years and never hesitated to give his opinion. He was firm, with a gentle heart, always generous and believed that everyone should have a second chance. He was loved by many and will be missed dearly.

Mr. Beatrice is survived by his son, Kevin Joseph Beatrice of Lake Charles; daughter, Laura Beatrice Babineaux and husband Arthur Babineaux, also of Lake Charles; granddaughter, Holly Edwards of Sulphur; great-grandchildren, Laney Eve Edwards and Collin Blake Edwards, both of Sulphur; sisters, Rose Marie Ferranti and husband John of The Villages, FL and Gloria Grillo of Plymouth, MA; lady friend and “main squeeze”, Nell Longo; loyal and trusting friend, Paul Arnold; Karen Carr, whom he loved like a daughter; and numerous other family members, nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Valda Beatrice; parents, Joseph and Susie Buonopane Beatrice; sister, Irene Galligan; best-friend, Herm Siegel; and two infant children, Gary and Karen.

As per Mr. Beatrice’s wishes, there will be no visitation and a private graveside service for family and close friends will be at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 8, 2018 at Prien Memorial Park. A small reception will follow at Mr. Beatrice’s residence. Cremation was entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.

The family would like to express a special word of thanks to Christus St. Patrick Hospice, especially Diane, Ashley and Angie, and also to his sitter, Julie McNeill for the care and compassion given.