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: Jerome "Big Duck" Smith

Mon, 08/24/26

Jerome "Big Duck" Smith, a Freedom Rider, civil rights leader, community organizer, culture bearer, and mentor passed Friday, August 21, 2026 at the age of 87. Smith dedicated his life to justice and to preserving the culture of New Orleans. As a young man, he participated... Read more

Celebrating Jerome "Big Duck" Smith

Mon, 08/24/26

Six Ward Steppers are hosting a second line memorial celebrating the life and legacy of "Big Duck" Smith on Wednesday, August 26 starting at 6pm. START at Tuba Fats Square (1600 St. Philip St) END Hunters Field (1659 N. Claiborne Ave.) Six Ward Steppers ask everyone to c... Read more

In Memoriam: Ronell Johnson

Fri, 07/10/26

WWOZ joins the New Orleans music community in mourning the loss of Ronell Johnson, who passed on June 14, at just 49 years old. A gifted multi-instrumentalist, Ronell carried the spirit of New Orleans music wherever he performed. Best known for his powerful trombone playing... Read more

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

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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