Baton Rouge, LA - Deacon Joseph Peter Walsh (Deacon Pete) entered eternal life on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at the age of 87. Rite of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church.

Born on January 28, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York, Deacon Pete lived a life defined by faith, service, intellectual curiosity, and love for others. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering and Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. After serving in the United States Army, he contributed to the Apollo space program, working on the coating of the heat shields to protect craft upon reentry into the Earth's atmosphere. He had a lengthy career as a Chemical Engineer at Exxon-Mobile, including assignments living in Greece, Spain, and France with his family.

Deacon Pete was an avid reader, who could swim, play the flute, sculpt, and was an expert at history, games, learning, and so much more. Deacon Pete completed his diaconate formation in 1996 in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, where he served for more than 30 years. His ministries were widespread and include: prison, youth, the Rosary, homeschooling, Charismatic, Evangelization, Respect Life Committee, Magnificat, and visiting the sick and homebound. He initiated both the Seven Sisters Ministry and That Man is You at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. His joyful faith, sense of humor, and genuine concern for others made him a trusted mentor and spiritual father to countless people.

He is predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Marie (née Balassi); Joan (née Cuscé) his beloved wife of more than 57 years. He is survived by his children: Maura; Stephen (Danielle); Christine; Karen Wilcox (Clifton); Jo Anne Mundt (Michael) and nine grandchildren.

The family would like to acknowledge the care provided to him by the nurses and staff at Clarity Hospice and At Homecare of Louisiana.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Retirement Fund for Priests through the Diocese of Baton Rouge or the Women's New Life Clinic. Any memorial cards to the family may be sent through St. Patrick Catholic Church or through Resthaven Gardens of Memory & Funeral Home.