John Ernest Dumas

John Ernest Dumas (Jed), 78, a lifelong New Orleans resident, passed away on January 16, 2026. He was born on May 5, 1947, in New Orleans, the city he loved. Jed was raised in the Lake Vista area and never left his beloved city.

Jed graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1965, where he excelled in track and basketball, earning a scholarship to Louisiana State University. He attended LSU with pride, arriving in a new 1965 Ford Mustang. As a proud American, he joined the U.S. Army and served with honor in Vietnam, receiving an Honorable Discharge. Jed remained a proud veteran for the rest of his life.

Throughout his professional career, Jed was a talented salesman, frequently promoted to top positions based on his skills and knowledge. He provided generously for his family, working long days and nearly every weekend. Family was always first. After retirement, he served as building manager in Gretna, where he continued to build relationships and serve his community.

Jed's true passion was horse racing, a love that followed him throughout his adult life. Whether at the track or spending quiet afternoons at off-track betting, it was something that brought him genuine excitement and comfort. He was also a devoted New Orleans Saints fan from the team's earliest days. Jed was also a very skilled poker player, continuing to play until his final days. As he got older, Jed found joy in simple routines, watching the races, enjoying familiar places, and occasionally sneaking a po-boy along the way, even when the doctors advised against it. These small pleasures meant the world to him and brought him lasting happiness.

He was a loving father and spirited family member, cherished for the eccentricities that made him truly special. Jed worked hard for his family and remained close with his children, grandchildren, and entire family until the very end. He also maintained lifelong friendships, staying in touch with them throughout his life.

Jed was the proud father of Gregory Dumas, Yvette Dumas Kohan, and Nicole Dumas. He is survived by five grandchildren: Zoe, Mikah, Devereaux, Harper, and Holden; his sisters, Yvonne Dumas Saltzmann and Suzanne Dumas Guthrie; his stepsiblings, Robert Levin, William Levin, and Patricia Thayer-Geissler; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Dumas; his father, John F. Dumas; his mother, Doris Dumas; and his stepmother, Patricia Dumas.

Jed will be cremated and interred with his father and stepmother at Greenwood Cemetery in New Orleans. Please contact the family for information regarding the Celebration of Life at info@jeddumas.com.