C. Jerome “Jerry” D’Aquila, a resident of New Roads, LA, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2023 at his home, surrounded by family, at the age of 83. He was born on August 29, 1940 in Fort Adams, MS, where he was also raised. Jerry was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. He graduated from Loyola Law School in 1966 and was admitted to the practice of law on August 31, 1966. Jerry founded D’Aquila Law Firm in New Roads, LA, in 1966, where he operated a successful practice for over 50 years. Jerry began service as the Chief Public Defender for Pointe Coupee, West Baton Rouge and Iberville Parishes on January 1, 1968 and served for 55 years. Jerry is survived by his wife Victoria “Vicki” D’Aquila; his children, Gina D’Aquila Watson (Stephen), Paul D’Aquila, Jerica D’Aquila Chustz (Mark), and Cy J. D’Aquila, Jr. (Heather); his grandchildren, Hunter D’Aquila, Isabella D’Aquila, Olivia D’Aquila, Sawyer D’Aquila, Archer D’Aquila, Madelynn Chustz, Mia Chustz, Juliana Chustz, Kate Watson and Matthew Watson, who affectionately called him “Papa” and numerous other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rosario “Cy” D’Aquila and Madeline Tuminello D’Aquila; his brothers, Thomas D’Aquila and Vincent D’Aquila; and his in-laws, Murphy Oubre and Rita Oubre. Jerry enjoyed sharing his Italian culture with his family and friends, especially while holding a glass of red wine and of course, a cigar. He was an avid LSU Tigers and Houston Astros fan and enjoyed listening to Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. He delighted in traveling to his beloved Cefalu, Sicily, with his wife, family and friends. Jerry loved his family with all he had. All of his “sweet peas” held a special place in Papa’s heart. Jerry’s passion was practicing law and he made many life-long friends through his love of the law. His personality was unforgettable. Jerry will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Visitation was held at St. Augustine Catholic Church in New Roads, LA, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with a mass of Christian Burial immediately followed at St. Augustine Catholic Church in New Roads, LA Interment followed at False River Memorial Park in New Roads, LA. Pallbearers were Mark Chustz, Stephen Watson, Paul D’Aquila, Cy D’Aquila, Hunter D’Aquila, Matthew Watson, Chuck Dawson and Tanner Dawson. Honorary Pallbearers were Thomas Nelson, Dr. Louis Montelaro, Allen Freeman, Judge Kevin Kimball, Randy Guidroz and Craig Major. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. The family would like to thank all of Jerry’s family and friends, Dr. Louis Montelaro and his staff for their many years of care, Pointe Coupee Homebound Health and Hospice and all who have shown care and kindness in his last days.