Joe Dominick Ribando, Jr.

Joe “Dominick” Ribando, Jr., age 86, and a resident of Ponchatoula, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, Louisiana, on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

Joe was born on November 20th, 1939, in Tickfaw, Louisiana, to the late Lena and Joseph Ribando, Sr. He was a man known for his deep love of food-whether he was cooking it or enjoying it with those around him. His family will forever cherish the Sunday tradition of his famous spaghetti, a meal that brought everyone together. Joe also took great pride in cooking for festivals and competitions, where he delighted others with his famous jambalaya, and deemed Papa Joe, The Jambalaya King.

A skilled contractor by trade, Joe had a remarkable ability to build anything he set his mind to. He was a true people person who never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. Above all, he had a strong and unwavering faith, and he especially loved sharing the word of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Joe was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for over 16 years, faithfully serving in many callings throughout that time. He was also a loyal supporter of Southeastern Louisiana University Athletics, proudly cheering “Lion Up!” for his team.

He took pride in his appearance, enjoying any opportunity to dress “to the nines” and spend time out with his wife, family, and friends.

Joe was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Vivian Ribando; his children, Tonya Ribando Garrison (Kelly), Joe Ribando III, Dean Edward Ribando, Heather Arielle Ribando Bell (Bodie), and Callista Reuelle Ribando; his stepchildren, Ginger Poche, Penny Poche Carter (Mike), and Buffie Hutchinson; 15 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; his siblings, Johnny Ribando and Jo Marie Ribando Alfonso (Frank); as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lena and Joseph Ribando, Sr.; his brothers, Russell Ribando, Anthony Ribando, Guy Ribando, and Jimmy Ribando; and his daughter-in-law, Maureen Helm Ribando.

Family and friends are invited to attend the visitation and services on Friday, March 27, 2026, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2503 Old Baton Rouge Highway, Hammond, Louisiana 70403. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 a.m. Bishop Joshua Fletcher will officiate the service, with entombment to follow at Our Lady of Pompeii Catholic Church Mausoleum.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Homes.