Janet Lastarza

Janet Lastarza, 91, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away into the loving arms of Jesus on July 24, 2023. Janet was born May 31, 1932 in St. Johnsville, NY to Gino Castellucci and Frances DiPeppe. She was predeceased by her husband, Alexander “Sandy“ Lastarza on the exact same day (July 24) in 2019. He was the love of her life. She was the youngest child growing up with two older brothers, Gene Castellucci and Alfred Castellucci , one sister, Ameila (Mey) Miller, all who were predeceased. Janet is survived by her son, Lawrence (Anne) Lastarza, daughter, Mary Jo (Greg) Ratliff, and daughter, Amy Hill, grandchildren, Ryan (Tiffany) Cunningham, Chris (Whitney) Lastarza, Benjamin (Caitlin) Ratliff, Taylor Sloan, Hunter (Amber) Hill, Eric Miele, and Karen Miele. She is also survived by 8 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Janet and Sandy married on September 13, 1953, in St. Johnsville, New York. Theirs was a real-life love story. They moved to Central Florida, (a longtime dream) from Rochester, NY when Sandy was transferred with his job in 1975. Janet and Sandy were actively involved at their church, serving as Eucharistic Ministers, and in the music ministry for King of Kings prayer group for over 36 years at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Winter Park, FL. Janet enjoyed cooking, sewing, painting, crafting, and vacationing in New Smyrna Beach. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family and hosting family and friends for get-togethers. She loved her family fiercely. Janet was known for so many things: her love of the Lord, her kindness and compassion, her hospitality, her sense of humor, and her graciousness. She never turned down an opportunity to pray for those in need. She was an incredible encourager and prayer warrior, and the Lord used her to touch the lives of everyone she met. Janet was deeply loved by her family and friends, and she leaves behind a beautiful legacy. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” -Matthew 25:23 A funeral mass will be held on Friday, August 25, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 5300 Old Howell Branch Rd., Winter Park, FL 32792, with a reception immediately following in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests a tribute donation in her name be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Janet Lastarza

May 31, 1932 - July 24, 2023