Jose’ Fernando Echeagaray

Jose' Fernando Echeagaray, born on 10/31/59 to Fernando Echeagaray and Patricia Barbier Simmons, passed away on 01/29/26 at 66 years of age after battling cancer.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, his parents, his Uncle Augie Barbier, and other uncles, as well as his Aunt Amalia.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 38 years, Donna, his son, Nicholas (Lorayne), and his grandchildren (whom he adored), Lyla Echeagaray and Joseph "Bear" Echeagaray.

He is also survived by his Aunt Verlyn Barbier, and other aunts, his step-siblings, Larry Simmons (Kay), Jan Pillsbury, Nancy Richards and Clint Simmons (Mary Ann), cousin Barbara Dildy (Dr. Gary), and numerous other cousins, nieces and nephews, and many close friends.

Fernando was employed by Premier Nissan as a Finance Manager for many years, and loved his co-workers, who became his extended family. Phil and Francois were like brothers to him.

He was larger than life, kind, compassionate, had a wonderful sense of humor, and loved by all who truly knew him. He was fluent in Spanish and enjoyed traveling to Spain with his wife. Fernando enjoyed attending New Orleans Saints games with his son, and he was a staunch supporter of FC Barcelona. He was a true New Orleans 'foodie,' who enjoyed trying new restaurants with his friends and family. His favorite restaurant was Barcelona Tapas, located Uptown. He loved hot sausage po-boys and raw oysters. His family members will remember him for his love, selflessness and humility. He truly enjoyed serving and helping others. Sundays with Fernando were special to his family. They enjoyed barbequing and swimming in the backyard, watching football and going out to eat. They enjoyed laughing together, and Fernando was known for his tremendous and often mischievous sense of humor. He was happy that his son Nicholas found Lorayne, and words cannot describe how he felt about the grandchildren that they gave him.

Fernando will be deeply missed by his family, friends, co-workers, and many others. May he rest in peace in the arms of his Heavenly Father.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026 from Noon to 2 p.m., followed by a Mass at Garden of Memories Funeral Home in Metairie, Louisiana. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in Fernando's name.