New Orleans mayor’s husband dies

First Gentleman Jason Cantrell was a well-known lawyer

LaToya Cantrell, the mayor of New Orleans, and her husband Jason Cantrell (LaToya Cantrell / Twitter)

The husband of the New Orleans mayor LaToya Cantrell died, according to a statement.

“It is with great sadness and heartache that we announce the passing of First Gentleman Jason Cantrell,” said Director of Communications Gregory Joseph in a statement. It did not provide the cause of his death.

According to the Cantrell Law Firm website, he was “one of the most respected lawyers in Louisiana.” Cantrell previously worked for the Orleans Parish Public Defender’s Office as well as the city attorney’s office.

“He was a devoted husband and father, as well as a dedicated public servant who valiantly served the residents of this city not only alongside Mayor Cantrell but also as an experienced family, civil and criminal attorney. First Gentleman Cantrell will forever be missed and cherished by his beloved family, the legal community and the entire City of New Orleans. May he rest in God’s eternal peace,” the statement continued.

“Our love and prayers remain with Mayor Cantrell, their daughter RayAnn and the entire Cantrell family. We ask that you please respect their privacy during this challenging time,” the statement said.

“We are all saddened and shocked by the loss of Jason Cantrell,” wrote New Orleans City Council Vice President Helena Moreno. “The Cantrell family has lost a father, a son, and spouse and I encourage all New Orleanians to lift the Mayor and her family up in prayer during this tragic and difficult time.”