In Memoriam

We've lost some of our most beloved musicians and other friends who've shared and contributed richness to the musical tapestry of New Orleans and the world. Please join us in remembering their songs and their spirits. Use the "Comments" section below to add your own tributes to anyone we've missed.

Charles "Action" Jackson | George Wein

Ellis Marsalis | Art Neville | Dave Bartholomew | Dr. John

Fats Domino | Pete Fountain | Allen Toussaint

In Memoriam: James Rivers

Mon, 07/06/26

New Orleans multi-instrumentalist James Rivers has died at the age of 89. Born in 1937 and raised in New Orleans' historic Treme neighborhood, he was renowned for his mastery of the tenor, alto, and soprano saxophone, as well as the flute, harmonica, clarinet, and even bagp... Read more

Photos: Ronell Johnson Memorial Second Line

Tue, 06/23/26

A memorial second line for Ronell Johnson was held yesterday, starting at Tuba Fats Square and ending at Preservation Hall. Photographer MJ Mastrogiovanni was on hand to capture these moments from the many who came out to celebrate his life. A Homegoing Service will be hel... Read more

In Memoriam: Scott Aiges

Thu, 04/09/26

Scott Aiges, who served as Director of Programs, Marketing, and Communications at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation from 2007 to 2019, passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the age of 63 in White Plains, New York, following a battle with glioblastoma, an aggres... Read more

In Memoriam: Cindy Terwilliger

Thu, 07/03/25

WWOZ is deeply grateful for the generous bequest left by Guardian of the Groove Cindy Terwilliger, who passed away in June. Cindy spent her professional career as an Administrator for the Federal Transit Administration serving offices around the country including Denver, K... Read more

In Memoriam: Lillian Boutte

Sat, 05/24/25

Renowned New Orleans vocalist Lillian Boutte died Friday, May 23, at the age of 75, her family shared. She passed away after battling a prolonged illness. Boutte’s career and influence stretched far beyond her hometown. She studied opera performance at Xavier University, ... Read more

In Memoriam: Lawrence Ketchens II

Fri, 01/31/25

WWOZ is saddened to share that Dr. Lawrence Ketchens II passed away early this morning. He was a beloved husband to Doreen Ketchens, as well as a devoted father, friend, and musician. Lawrence was most recognized as a member of Doreen's Jazz, playing tuba, valve trombone, d... Read more

In Memoriam: "Brown Sugar" Belle Moore

Fri, 01/24/25

WWOZ is saddened to share that former show host Belle "Brown Sugar" Moore died on January 22, 2025. Brown Sugar was one of the biggest personalities to ever grace the airwaves in New Orleans, and served as a DJ on WWOZ from the late 1980s until 2004. She also led our member... Read more

Video: John "Prince" Gilbert's Funeral

Sat, 01/04/25

Dozens of brass players, Baby Dolls, and Mardi Gras Indians came out to honor John "Prince" Gilbert at his funeral on December 30, 2024. At the time of his passing on December 14, Gilbert played saxophone for Treme Brass Band. He was also an original member of Rebirth Brass... Read more

In Memoriam: George French

Fri, 08/30/24

We are very sad to share the news that legendary New Orleans singer, bassist, bandleader, and all-around musician George French has passed at the age of 81. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to his family, his friends, and everyone who knew him. We would like to thank hi... Read more

In Memoriam: Luther Kent

Fri, 08/16/24

Musician Luther Kent died on Friday, August 16, 2024, at the age of 76. "Big" Luther Kent’s soulful voice and versatile repertoire – ranging from gospel to swing to traditional jazz – made him a New Orleans household name. He performed around the world, and the Louisiana Mu... Read more

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In Memoriam

Charles "Action" Jackson | George Wein

Ellis Marsalis | Art Neville | Dave Bartholomew | Dr. John

Fats Domino | Pete Fountain | Allen Toussaint