Alan Diamond

Alan S. Diamond, a retired local businessman, restaurant executive and mentor to many young New Orleanians through his nonprofit affiliations, died peacefully at his home on Sunday, Jan. 30 after a brief illness. He was 68. A native of Greenwood, Mississippi, Alan moved to New Orleans right after graduating from the University of Alabama to work at the first newly opened Wendy's Restaurants in New Orleans. He rose through the ranks at Wendy's to become head of operations for all local Wendy's franchises. He later served in a similar capacity at Corky's Barbecue in Metairie. Although a success in his professional endeavors, Alan's passion was his dedication to helping young people as a volunteer mentor at various local nonprofits, including Boys & Girls Clubs, Café Reconcile and others. Alan was also active in Touro Synagogue and served on its board of directors. Alan loved sports, particularly college football and basketball, the New Orleans Saints, and all things University of Alabama, his beloved alma mater. He also loved all kinds of music. He attended many Jazz Fests and concerts. At the young age of 39, Alan was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, which he fought bravely for the rest of his life. Soon after Hurricane Katrina, at the age of 52, Alan became wheelchair bound, but the smile that was his hallmark never left his face. Friends and relatives knew Alan as one of the strongest, most kind-hearted and courageous men they had ever met. "He lifted us all by his warm smile, his generosity of spirit, his wisdom and his warmth," said one friend. "He reminded us all of the importance of family, friendship, perseverance and love. He was a deep pool of calm water, and everyone who spent time with Alan came away a better person for having known him." He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Laurie Silverstein Diamond; his daughters Meredith Diamond DuBos (Brandin) of New Orleans and Lindsay Diamond Jardine (Charlie) of London, England; sister Roslyn Diamond Clark (Charles) of Memphis, TN; brother Richard Diamond (Shelley) of Destin, FL; caregiver Killean Holley of New Orleans; as well as many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. Alan was predeceased by his parents, Harry and Mary Louise Rogers Diamond; and older brother Samuel "Sam" Diamond of Birmingham, AL. Funeral services will begin at 11a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 2, at Touro Synagogue, 4238 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans. A celebration of his life will follow the service. Lake Lawn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please send donations "In memory of Alan Diamond" to the National MS Society, nationalmssociety.org or to MD Anderson Cancer Center, mdanderson.org/gifts (Designation: Various Donors for Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma/ VARACC).