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Ellis Marsalis Jr.
Ellis Marsalis Jr.
Obituary
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Ellis Marsalis Obituary
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93 Entries
Nancy yen chong
May 15, 2022
I have been listening to Jazz for a while and I am so saddened at his passing
The music now lives in our heart and soul and continuing to the future one in a million
Mark Person
October 11, 2020
I met Mr.Marsalis years ago when taking a piano class at VCU when he was a faculty member. I was 30 years old and as a trumpet player growing up wanted to learn the piano. I met him one day at the school and he took time to talk, He was very kind and encouraged me to play the piano and practice. He was inspirational and now I am 64 and still remember his kind words. Condolences to the Marsalis Family to such a great musician and person.
LC
September 15, 2020
I am so sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort continue to give you strength.
How you can show support
Melinda McGee
July 31, 2020
What a most wonderful and gracious gentleman! I was grateful to be on the NOCCA faculty with him back in the day. He raised so many wonderful musicians as an inspirational teacher. His spirit and music lives on!
Leroy Andry
June 10, 2020
Everytime I think of Jazz Mr. Marsalis have always been that vision in my mind. I attended the very first "NOCCA" and have never ceased thinking of those gratifying moments. He will always be a Jazz icon in my life time.
Ben
April 30, 2020
Thank you Mr. Marsalis, your humble words and beautiful music will stay with me forever, and I will truly miss you and your music. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your contributions to music and the world, and your support for my school, NOCCA, and me. You have and always will inspire me Mr. Marsalis, rest in peace.
April 25, 2020
I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family for their loss of a talented man, and musician. He will be remembered for his contribution to the music industry. May you find comfort and strength in God during this time of mourning.
EEP
April 24, 2020
My heartfelt condolences to the Marsalis family, friends and fans of this beloved patriarch New Orleans jazz pianist. May you fine comfort with you during this difficult time in your lives and in your wealth of fond memories together. Although your hearts are filled with pain and sorrow, our prayer is that you gain comfort and hope from Almighty God to comfort your hearts.
April 18, 2020
My deepest condolences to the Marsalis family and fans. A jazz legend and great musician. May your find peace and comfort from God and fond memories today, tomorrow, and always.
Ione Lundy
April 18, 2020
A Musical Genius and LEGEND!!!!
Marisa Gray
April 17, 2020
My heart breaks & is very heavy with sadness hearing about the passing of such a memorable man, Ellis Marsalis I went to NOCCA in the late 70's with his sons Wynton & Branford. I remember walking by the music class hearing Mr Marsalis teaching his class & hearing the beautiful melodies coming from his class room. Thinking to myself. Wow! What Beautiful music Sending my condolences to his talented family especially Wynton & Branford. You both were blessed to have such a talented, kind, loving father God is lucky to have him & hear his music in heaven Marisa Soto
Carol-Princess Washington
April 14, 2020
The heavenly band gained the best jazz pianist in the world. Rest in peace Mr Ellis. You will be missed.
April 14, 2020
My condolences to the Marsalis family. My late husband Warren "Porgy" Jones often spoke of Mr. Marsalis' talent. He will surely be missed by his many fans.
Sincerely,
Floragene Jones
Ann Marie Husk
April 12, 2020
Our prayers are with the Marsalis family, we are so sorry for your loss. I am sure he was a wonderful father, father-in-law, grandfather, husband, uncle and friend to name a few roles he filled. I was fortunate to meet him at the Snug Harbor 2 years ago. I thought he was going to be the star of the show and of course he was great, but I was very impressed on how he let the young musicians and vocalist shine on stage that evening. He even stepped off the stage for a while and they just took it away and they were great. I know he is proud of his sons who are wonderful educators and love the sharing of knowledge. We can all learn from his example. It is wonderful to here all the stories people have written. Thank you for this opportunity to share these memories and hope they help comfort you and may God comfort all of you.
Terrence Humphrey
April 12, 2020
Im sorry for the loss of your father. For all that he meant for you, the New Orleans community, and the music world he will always be remembered.
Chris Nichols
April 10, 2020
Never in a foul mood or demeanor just a true jazzy New Orleans gem of a man . Know he is jamming wherever he is and whoever can hear it is in ecstasy.
Yolanda Scott
April 9, 2020
My prayers go out to the family of Mr. Ellis Marsalis Jr. Heaven is truly jamming now.
Raphael Cassimere, Jr.
April 8, 2020
I have fond memories of Ellis as a colleague at UNO. We shared committee assignments, and often dined together in the university cafeteria, especially on Mondays when traditional red beans and rice was served. I remember sitting with Ellis and his close friend, Harold Batiste, during the long graduation ceremonies which often became tedious. He always kept up a light-hearted chatty. Ellis and Harold often referred their majors to my history classes. Both of them are now deceased academic luminaries. He will be greatly missed, but Ellis will live on through his and his sons' excellent artistic contributions to our city, state, nation, and the world.
Raphael Cassimere, Jr.
Howard Bankhead
April 8, 2020
I had (have) a personal connection with NEA Jazz Master Ellis Marsalis. In 2012, upon his last visit to Huntsville, AL, Mr. Marsalis, conducted a Master-class for students and the community on the campus of Alabama A&M University, served as a panelist on a symposium about jazz and performed in concert with Huntsville's Tennessee Valley Jazz All-Stars.
cheryl allen
April 8, 2020
Mr. Marsalis was a wonderful person . I would love to see him walking in the neighborhood . Rest in peace.
MR. & MRS. CHARLES G TURNER, SR & FAMILY.
April 7, 2020
TO THE MARSALIS FAMILY
It's God's Will And We Must Comply
By: Charles G. Turner, Sr.
Life is uncertain,
But as sure as we are born one day we must die
Sometimes we sit and wonder why
The fact is it's God's will and we must comply.
Throughout our lives we live through happiness and sadness
And many toils and strife
And when our earthly life is over we enter into our eternal life
Whenever a loved one or friend makes their earthly depart
It is natural for it to bring hurt and sorrow to our heart
And to deal with our loss we grieve, mourn, and cry
In all essence we must remember this is God's will
And we all must comply
For those of us that are left behind
We must cherish the special memories
And keep them all in mind
Just remember it is not for
us to question why we have to die
It's God's will and we all have to comply
May God Bless and comfort all of you
Anne Collins Smith
April 7, 2020
Mr. Marsalis was such an affable man. I loved hanging with him. The last time I saw him in this realm was at the Satchmo Summerfest. He said he didnt need his walker to climb up the stage. We giggled and told him not to hurt himself trying to be cute.
He was so spirited during that performance. I am in immense gratitude to him for everything from sharing his sandwiches in the trailers at Jazz Fest to making making a safe space for me as a woman to being consummate in his deportment.
His ripple effect abounds.
Much love to you all.
Anne
Jarene Fleming
April 7, 2020
I am proud to say my first professional singing gig was with Ellis Marsalis Jr. I was fortunate to meet him and Miss Delores when they lived around the corner from me in Richmond , VA. We worked on a creative endeavor at VCU called Sonny's Blues. I became a life long fan and saw him play in many cities. He always remembered me and encouraged me. My deepest condolences to the Marsalis Family, and to his extended family of students. Our lives are better, richer for having known Mr. Marsalis. God Bless, keep and comfort you.
Sally Anderson
April 6, 2020
My condolences to the family. Praying God comfort you.
Whitney Marchelle
April 6, 2020
My condolences and prayers to all of the Marsalis I loved pops Ellis I called him that because he seemed like a father of jazz..he was honestly blunt but loving giving me educational guidance in singing,writing music, piano voicing and shared some great road stories. His me a better women and musician. Thankyou popsellis your legacy will live on for ever with words of wisdom and swing.
Eugenia Adams
April 6, 2020
To the sons and family,
"The death leaves a heartache no one can heal - love leaves memories no one can steal." Unknown. May the memories of your love one and God's love comfort you and warm your hearts.
God's blessings be with each of you.
April 6, 2020
My condolences to the family.
Debbie Richerson
April 6, 2020
I pray for great strength for the Marsalis family in celebrating the legacy of their patriarch, Mr. Ellis Marsalis. May GOD continue to be with you all throughout your celebration of Mr. Marsalis' life and legacy.
Deb R
April 6, 2020
Mr. Marsalis's musical genius laid a path for his family to follow. What a beautiful contribution to humanity. His spirit lives in his musical creations. Please accept my deepest condolences during this time of loss.
Joan Harris
April 5, 2020
Mr. Ellis, I will miss you terribly. I love you and will always remember your beautiful talent and love for Jazz music. You will always be a special part of my remembrance of New Orleans. Rest In Heavenly peace my friend.
Alishia
April 5, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Chris
April 5, 2020
I offer my sincere condolences to the Marsalis family. I did not have the pleasure of hearing Mr Marsalis ' music but he certainly must have passed down his legacy to his son. What a beautiful legacy it is. May God give your family peace as you mourn. Philippians 4:7
Jenee
April 5, 2020
I am so sorry about the loss of Ellis. What a huge loss but an awesome musical legacy! My condolences are with the Marsalis family. I pray that you will be surrounded by the love & support that you need. And may "the God who supplies endurance and comfort" (Roman's 15:5) be with you always.
Edwin Skinner
April 5, 2020
Whether at the Iridium in NY, Snug Harbor on Frenchmen St., or when I heard him last year at the French Quarter Festival, his piano playing was always supreme. Thank you for your grand contribution to jazz. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Lisa Guerre
April 4, 2020
I loved his music. God bless his soul and keep him in His Peace. He gave so much to so many.
April 4, 2020
A remarkably talented beautiful
man, with remarkably talented
sons. How happy they must have made you, and how proud of you
they surely are.
Condolences to the family, friends,
Jazz lovers and New Orleans.
Play for the Lord and the Heavenly Body of Saints and Angels. They will love listening to you! You are
now an Angel.
RIP Mr. Ellis, God has Blessed you
FL.
Robert Monie
April 4, 2020
Thank you for the life you led and especially for the work you did to help establish NOCCA.
Clarence Hall, jr
April 4, 2020
My condolenses to the Marsalais. Ellis and I started in Kindergarten through Booker T. Washington grade school that became F.P. Ricard. We graduated in the same 8th grade class. Fond memories of teachers Dixon, Bradley, Rainey, Perkins, Hunt. Roussel twins and Ada Mae, Edgar Dillon, the Thomas brothers, the Cyres brothers, Columbus, Clarence Jones, Eleanor Short, Peggy Anderson, Lillie B Green, Clarence Lee Carter, Barbara Mitchell; Griffith, Prof. Carpenter; the Blanchett brothers, Earl and Stella Seaberry, Sanchez, Jupiter P. Bennett, Richard Dimes. Duncan, Friends in Gertown. I left New Orleans in 1952 to join the Air Force.
April 4, 2020
This legendary musician will be missed. Condolences to the family.
Sa
April 4, 2020
Heartfelt condolences are extended to to Marsalis family. I am so truly sorry for your loss, a true legend. May your cherished memories console you and may the Father of tender mercies be with you.
April 4, 2020
We pray that God continues to strengthen and comfort the Ellis family during this extremely difficult time. Our prayers for you will not stop.
Olden Henson
April 4, 2020
A true jazz and music legend. Who else could play piano with any of the greats and produce such gifts to the world in his sons. As a native of Louisiana, I listened to Mr. Marsalis growing up. What a legacy. RIP. He is now playing in Heaven.
April 4, 2020
To this family,
I extend heartfelt condolences to the family, of this "MAN OF INTEGRITY". I will continue to pray with you and pray for you, during this "Dim", time in your lives.
Gloria A. Coleman-Brown
April 4, 2020
His musical legacy lives on through his talented family. My condolences
April 3, 2020
A legend has left our midst, heartfelt condolences to the Marsalis family, so very sorry for your loss, may God comfort you at this very difficult time.
Coral Robinson
April 3, 2020
My Deepest Sympathies to the Marsalis Family for the loss of your wonderful loving Father. We have all been blessed by having him in our lives. May he rest in God's loving arms.
April 3, 2020
My deepest sympathy to the Marsalis family may you be comforted in knowing that those who passed in death God keeps in his memory
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayUC2GeXIiE
Helen Brown
April 3, 2020
Ellis and I worked together in 1977 at the Hyatt Regency in New Orleans. I was the hostess/sommelier and he was the resident piano player. At the time I had a recording contract with a local producer who Ellis knew. He at the time was teaching piano during the day. His student Harry Connick, Jr. was recording his first album at the same studio I recorded in. Harry was all of nine years old. Two years ago I contacted Ellis about going to the Umbria Jazz Festival in Italy. There was a large celebration for Quincy Jones 85th birthday. Ellis was a year away from his 85th also. He couldn't but offered me to be his guest at Snug Harbor where he preformed on Friday nights. How sad for this horrible virus to silence such a talented man. RIP Ellis!
April 3, 2020
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief, and find comfort from knowing that God draws close to the broken-hearted.
Kelley Richardson
April 3, 2020
I'm so sad to read that Ellis has passes. He was one of the greatest influences in Jazz and in New Orleans. His loss is great however, his legacy is tremendous. He will never be forgotten. My thought are with the family at this tragic time.
Robert Spencer
April 3, 2020
The passing of Ellis Marsalis from this earth is truly a sad moment. This man was a giant person that shared his personal and musical talents with so many. Meeting and talking with him as my wife Betty and I did on several occasions added to our love for him and what he gave so willingly to all of us. We saw him perform many times and thoroughly enjoyed his musical interpretations. My wife has a cap he signed on two occasions over a number of years. The cap sits in a place of honor in our house. The way he raised his children and the talent they bring to us is another extension of who he was on this earth. His legacy as a human being and an exquisite entertainer is a mark for many to aspire for. When my wife and take our final journey we each choose a selection for play at our celebration of life. Perhaps we shall hear him play on the other side. Rest in peace Ellis and condolences to all the family.
Ed Mcgee
April 3, 2020
Never met you or your sons,but was always proud to hear about the great things you all were doing.You set the example that we all should work hard to achieve.RIP and tell Mrs Delores hello from us all
Stephanie Saunders
April 3, 2020
My deepest sympathy, thoughts and prayers to the Marsalis Family.
Ann Stokman
April 3, 2020
Sorry to hear of the loss.
Our Family Journal Heritage Seal of Life, USA & Abroad
Dr. Charles L. Singleton
April 3, 2020
Ellis Marsalis Jr., New Orleans jazz pianist, and one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, will forever be remembered for his amazing contribution to music. And, throughout our sympathetic ears, beating hearts, and "precious memories," we are still listening.
Family Journal Readers, USA & Overseas
April 3, 2020
I send my deepest condolences to the Marsalis family on the loss of the patriarch, Ellis Marsalis Jr. His name is synonymous with jazz and a jazz legend that will be missed. May you all share the wonderful memories of life and lessons. May the God of comfort give you and peace at this very difficult time.
April 3, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
George Osborne
April 3, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
L K
April 2, 2020
I've never met any of the Marsalis family, but if his children are a measure of the kind of man he was, he was a great man. In addition to helping them find and use their talents, they have shown great generosity, kindness, and compassion to others - all of which are signs that their parents did a great job of raising them. Bravo to a life lived well!
April 2, 2020
So sorry to hear about your loss. You know that God and Jesus are in the best position to comfort us when we lose a loved one in death.
Alita Alfaro Gremillion
April 2, 2020
Our prayers for peace and Gods comfort are with you all. We are heartbroken, but we are grateful that Ellis is at peace.
When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
Ellis, thank you for sharing your God-given talents with us. We love you and will see you again, but the next time will be forever.
David and Alita Alfaro Gremillion
April 2, 2020
My deepest condolences to the Marsalis family. His legacy will live on and on always. May Gods love heal your broken hearts. ❤
April 2, 2020
Sorry for your family loss he will be greatly missed. My prays are with the family
Leroy Mincey
April 2, 2020
Our prayers and condolences are with you at this time of sorrow may God continue to bless the family and give them strength comfort you at this time of bereavement we meet Winton through my cousin Wycliff Gordon we came to see you in newhaven ct, Leroy and Lil Mincey to THE family of Mr Ellis Marsalis.
April 2, 2020
Condolences to the loved ones of Ellis. His musical legacy made the world a happier place.
Janice Neudorfer
April 2, 2020
My warmest love and condolences to the family. I met Ellis visiting Snag Harbor. He did a dual piano amazing performance. When I got to speak to him I complimented him on his familys artistic skills, his answer, I owe it all to my wife. A wonderful gentleman. Take care, Janice Neudorfer
faitht tobin
April 2, 2020
Rory and I would luv to express our condolences's on the loss of Ellis Marsalis.he'll surely be missed very very much.luv,faith/rory
HARRY/BETTYE TANKERSLEY
April 2, 2020
FAMILY MAN GREAT MUSIC WONDERFUL MEMORIES REST IN PEACE. PRAYERS FOR THE FAMILY!
Scott Chamberland
April 2, 2020
Please accept my Deepest Sympathies
April 2, 2020
To The Marsalis Family: "For None Of Us Lives To Himself, And No Man Dies To Himself. For If We Live, We Live To The Lord, And If We Die, We Die To The Lord. Whether We Live, Therefore, Or Die, We Are The Lord's."--Romans l4:7-8; With Sincere Empathy, Sympathy And Love, Wanda White And Family.
V M
April 2, 2020
To the Marsalis family,
So very sorry for your loss. Ellis music was a delight to hear. Cherish the wonderful memories and may the God of all comfort be with you as a source of comfort and strength!
pete c
April 2, 2020
A man of integrity and ecellence. Deep loss.
R.I.P. Brother
April 2, 2020
I am sorry regarding the loss of your loved one. He was quite know, for the music, he produced,along with his musical family. I'm so sorry, he contracted the virus, no ones life should be shortened by such. I pray one day, these diseases, will ne a thing of the past. May the God of Comfort, continue to comfort the family, during these difficult times
Joyce J McGhee
April 2, 2020
Please know that I am sitting with you during this time of grief.
Rose M Spears
April 2, 2020
Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Ellis Marsalis. I was honored to have met him once in San Sebastian, Spain @ the jazzfest. His performances were spectacular. I cherish the memories of this gracious, kind, gentlemen. May he rest in peace and in God's care.
PAT BOHANNON
April 2, 2020
CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY.
faith tobin/dockett
April 2, 2020
sincere condolences's to the marsalis family and may your'e Dad rest in peace.luv,faith/rory
Lynn Vigo
April 2, 2020
Love and prayers to the Marsalis boys for the loss of your father. Branford, I'll always remember our Close Up trip in high school and seeing you at Festival Sundiata here in Seattle. Ya'll have done your mom and dad proud and our beloved hometown too. Holding you close. Take care and keep well. Mr. Vigo's daughter, Lynn.
JE Sowell
April 2, 2020
To the family and friends of Mr. Marsalis Jr.May the God of comfort and peace strengthen you during this difficult time. Please accept my sincere condolences.
faith/rory tobin/dockett
April 2, 2020
Dear Marsalis Family Rory and I would luv to express our condolences's on the loss of Ellis Marsalis Jr.he'll surely be missed very much.I absolutely luv jazz very very much.luv,faith/rory
eugene cantor
April 2, 2020
I had the great priviledge to meet Wynton in his vehicle in 1983 at Iron Horse cafe in nothhamton;he autographed an Album to me and my uncle both trumpet players;It was such an memorable moment I think of to this day;He was so generous;Tickets were $about $7-8;RIP Mr Marsalis teacher and musician,
Jerry Battista
April 2, 2020
Sincerest condolences to the entire Marsalis family. Your musical influence has spanned the entire world - great jazz music has no borders. Our thoughts are with you in Canada at this time of sorrow. From Jerry (guitarist , London Jazz Orchestra, London, Canada).
M Gibson
April 2, 2020
Earth has so sorrow that heaven cannot heal. A patriarch who was a legend who took care of his family and always gave back... sooo many individuals loved him for his caring ways... teaching and giving back.. a musician, teacher, father, husband, uncle, brother and friend to so many that loved him for all that he tried to do from an early age to adulthood. Will be missed by soooo many... RIP, to much was given and sooo much you tried to give. A #1 Fan .
BRY
April 2, 2020
Sincere condolences to the Marsalis Family, May Almighty God in the Heavens comfort your hearts with peace and loving kindness as you cope with this precious loss in your lives. Thank you for Ellis' contribution to the Jazz industry.
Wilma Irvin
April 2, 2020
May you forever remain in the mind and hearts of those whose lives you touched; and there are many! Kudos to you Ellis! Rest In Peace!
Richard Hoefer
April 2, 2020
So sad to hear of the passing of the great Ellis Marsalis. Loved that man, his music, his prodigy children. Never forget decades ago wanting to find a phone number for Mr. Marsalis's agent so I could ask how to reach Delfeayo; asked at a record store, they said "go pick up one of his albums, the phone number listed is his home.." No b.s. go-betweens, soon I was speaking to him on the phone, so accessible, friendly, helpful. A giant, yet ego-less.
April 2, 2020
My deepest sympathy to his family. May Almighty God grant you peace as you cope with your loss. Phil 4:6,7
Charles Dennison
April 2, 2020
Maestro....Not because of your musical skills but because of your devotion to all your children. I'm a family member since ever since I saw Branford's remarks about your autistic son. My autistic son passed away 5 years ago and I can't describe the feeling that Branford's remarks had on me and the essence of the wonder of the family that you created. I am humbled by your life in music and more humbled by your acts as a father. Thank you.
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