News Summary
Joseph Corte Canizaro, a renowned businessman and philanthropist, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. His contributions to New Orleans are significant, particularly in urban development and community projects like the TRADITION community. Canizaro’s dedication to faith and family earned him respect in the civic community. His memorial service is scheduled for June 27.
New Orleans – Joseph Corte Canizaro, a prominent businessman and philanthropist, passed away peacefully at his home on June 20, 2025, at the age of 88, surrounded by his family. Known affectionately as “Joe,” he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a significant figure in the development of New Orleans.
Canizaro is survived by his wife, Sue Ellen Mattina Canizaro, with whom he shared 64 years of marriage. He leaves behind daughters Joellen Theresa Canizaro and Jill Canizaro Randle, along with grandsons Ryan Joseph Lopiccolo and two great-grandsons, Hunter Grayson Lopiccolo and Beau Corte Lopiccolo. His family also includes surviving siblings Anna Rose Canizaro Bacas, Vito Joseph Canizaro, Jr., Roy Thomas Canizaro, and Vita Margaret Canizaro. He was preceded in death by his son, Vito Joseph Canizaro, IV, and several siblings.
Born on March 1, 1937, in Baltimore, Maryland, Canizaro was the first of eight children in a devout Catholic family. His early education was guided by the Holy Cross Brothers, and he graduated from Notre Dame High School in Biloxi, Mississippi. Canizaro pursued further studies at several universities, including Canisius University, Mississippi State University, and Spring Hill College. Despite being accepted into the University of Notre Dame, he was unable to attend due to his father’s passing.
Throughout his life, Joseph Canizaro exemplified unwavering faith and vision, making substantial contributions to various industries in and around New Orleans and Biloxi. He was instrumental in shaping the New Orleans Central Business District (CBD) and undertook several significant development projects that transformed the cityscape. His notable projects included the construction of the LL&E Tower, which is now known as the BankPlus Tower, and the Canal Place Shopping Center, among others. His legacy extends beyond New Orleans as he developed numerous office buildings, parks, and hotels nationwide.
One of Canizaro’s most ambitious endeavors was the TRADITION project, a master-planned community spanning 4,900 acres on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. This development aims to provide housing for approximately 35,000 to 40,000 residents upon completion, highlighting his vision for expansive, sustainable living in the region. The new Vito J. Canizaro Veterans Administration Home, which opened in 2025 at Tradition, is a testament to his commitment to supporting veterans in the Gulf Coast area.
A well-respected figure in the banking industry, Canizaro acquired First Bank and Trust in 1991, leading to the formation of First Trust Corporation. His leadership merged three banks, resulting in an institution with over $1 billion in assets. Additionally, in 1983, he owned and operated the New Orleans Breakers, a team in the United States Football League (USFL).
Canizaro’s contributions extended to civic and professional organizations, earning him recognition as a key player in urban development. His numerous accolades include an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters and the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Papal Honor, among others. His philanthropic work emphasized his Catholic faith, with contributions made to churches, schools, and various charitable organizations.
Perceiving family as his greatest achievement, Canizaro’s legacy will be remembered for his commitment to faith, love, and courage. A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for June 27, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Following the service, burial will be private at Metairie Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New Orleans or the Humane Society of Louisiana in honor of Canizaro’s dedicated life.
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Additional Resources
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