February 26th 2024.
Edgar L. "Dooky" Chase III, the son of Leah and Edgar "Dooky" Chase Jr., who were well-known restaurant owners in New Orleans, has passed away at the age of 74. He was a beloved member of the entrepreneurial family and his passing on February 21st has left a void in the hearts of many.
Surrounded by his loved ones and his wife, Alva, Dooky peacefully left this world. The family released a statement about the loss of this passionate New Orleanian, who was not only an attorney but also a dedicated community leader. "Dooky was a man who served his community with great passion and pride. He served on numerous local, state, and regional boards, always striving to make our community stronger and better for everyone. Along with his successful career as a CPA and attorney, Dooky was also a lifelong educator and university administrator, touching the lives of thousands of students and young professionals. He was a man of strong principles, always joyful in his dedication to serving others. Dooky's life was guided by his unwavering faith and belief in the power of love for humanity. He was a true believer in the ideals of liberty."
Dooky's parents' restaurant, Dooky Chase's, was a significant gathering place during the Civil Rights Movement. His mother, Leah, transformed it into a sit-down establishment, and it became a symbol of Black American history, Creole cuisine, and the celebration of Black artists. Over the years, the restaurant was visited by prominent leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Thurgood Marshall, who were fighting for racial equality. Even in modern times, it continued to attract public figures, including former President Barack Obama. The restaurant remains a family-owned business and a testament to the Chase family's legacy.
New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell also expressed her condolences to the Chase family, acknowledging the loss of a remarkable patriarch. "Dooky was a passionate advocate for change on the local, state, and regional levels. He always had the community's best interests at heart. As his family stated, he was joyfully dedicated to serving others, and this was evident in his tireless work at the family-owned restaurants, as well as his career in education and law. The Chase family's contributions are felt worldwide, and my deepest sympathies go out to Dooky's wife, Alva, and the entire family."
The funeral services will be held on February 29th in New Orleans, and the family has requested that donations be made to The Edgar "Dooky" Jr. and Leah Chase Family Foundation in Dooky's honor, instead of sending flowers. This foundation was established to carry on the legacy of the Chase family and their commitment to education and the community.
The passing of Dooky Chase III is a significant loss not just for his family, but for the entire New Orleans community. He leaves behind a legacy of service, passion, and dedication that will be remembered for generations to come. As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate his life and the impact he had on all those around him. Rest in peace, Dooky.
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