Joseph Pedro Obituary

In Loving Memory of Joseph Brocato Pedro

Joseph Brocato Pedro went to be with the Lord on November 18, 2024, passing away peacefully after a courageous battle with complications from Parkinson's disease. He was born on August 24, 1941, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Phillip and Grace Pedro, whose love and values shaped the remarkable life he would lead.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Phillip and Grace Pedro, and his beloved son, Joseph Brocato Pedro. He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, Marsha, who was his steadfast partner in all life's journeys; his children, Philip, Benjamin, and Angela; his daughter-in-law Michelle and son-in-law Robert; and his cherished grandchildren, Tyler, Joey, Xavier, Braelynn, and Elliott. He also leaves behind his brother Sammy and a host of extended family and dear friends.

Joseph grew up in Shreveport, graduating from Byrd High School. He spent his early years working in the family's restaurant, Pedro's Italian Restaurant, which instilled in him a love of community and hard work. He later served his country with honor, dedicating 20 years to the U.S. Navy before retiring. Afterward, Joseph embarked on a second career as an engine foreman with Kansas City Southern Railroad, where he worked for another 20 years before retiring for good.

Joseph's true passion, however, was gardening. After retirement, he embraced his love for horticulture, becoming a Certified Louisiana Master Gardener. His home in Benton, Louisiana, became a vibrant oasis and a hub of learning for the community. Working closely with the LSU AgCenter, Joseph cultivated orchards of fruit and nut trees, including figs, mayhaws, persimmons, citrus, and pecans. He also grew bountiful crops of blackberries, muscadines, and vegetables. His flower gardens, filled with heirloom bulbs he lovingly collected from abandoned homesteads, offered year-round beauty and inspiration to all who visited.

Joseph believed his farm was a gift from the Lord, and he treated it as such, opening it to others for tours, field days, and gardening lessons. He was especially proud to have his home featured in the 2001 Les Tour de Jardin. His dedication to teaching others about horticulture and his selfless sharing of his time and knowledge left an indelible mark on the community.

An avid outdoorsman, Joseph found joy in fishing, deer hunting, camping, and beekeeping. He also had a talent for woodworking and spent countless hours crafting beautiful and functional pieces.

In later years, as health challenges began to take their toll, Joseph and Marsha made the difficult decision to leave their cherished Benton home of 45 years and relocate to Colorado to be closer to family. Though the move marked the end of one chapter, it brought the comfort of being surrounded by loved ones during his final years.

Joseph's legacy of kindness, hard work, and an unwavering love for God, family, and nature will continue to inspire all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were touched by his wisdom and generosity.

In honor of Joseph's memory, the family requests that memorial donations be made to support Parkinson's research.