John Denton Wilmot

John Denton Wilmot, a lifelong New Orleanian whose humor, warmth, and talent brought joy to countless audiences and friends, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, in New Orleans after a long illness. He was 89 years old.

Born November 5, 1935, in New Orleans, John was the oldest of six children and the only son of Julian Mollere (“Jack”) Wilmot and Florence Miriam Schwab Wilmot. He attended Holy Name of Jesus School, De La Salle High School, and Loyola University New Orleans, where he earned a B.A. in English and was a member of Beggars Fraternity.

As young man, John earned the rank of Eagle Scout, an experience that nurtured the curiosity, self-reliance, and love of the outdoors that would shape his life. Whether chasing redfish through the Louisiana marsh, wetting a line in Audubon Park, or casting for trout in the streams of New England, those early lessons in exploration and stewardship stayed with him always.

Early in his career, John worked in advertising for The Times-Picayune and WDSU Radio, later joining Stewart Enterprises. Concurrently, his creative spirit led him to the stage and screen, where he became a respected member — and past president — of SAG-AFTRA in New Orleans.

Over four decades, John appeared in more than 40 film and television productions and numerous live theatre performances. His stage work included memorable turns at Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré, Gallery Circle Theatre, Beverly Dinner Playhouse, and Rivertown Theatre. On screen, he was featured in acclaimed films such as Get Out, Dead Man Walking, Last Holiday, and Tightrope.

To New Orleans-area TV audiences, John was also known for his work in numerous commercials, most notably his long-running stint as the beloved “Victor I. Pelican” for Pelican Homestead, which made him a familiar and endearing presence on local airwaves.

Beyond his professional life and outdoor pursuits, John loved traveling, leaf-watching, and autumn’s arrival. He cherished good food and wine, spending time with family, his regular trips to New York for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, and the simple joys of caring for his cats and feeding the ducks in Audubon Park.

John is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Linda Vorhaben Wilmot; his sisters Barbara Wilmot Stapp and Caryl Wilmot Barnes (Eugene); and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Ann Wilmot Gauthier-Rappaport, Mary Mollere Wilmot, and Cary Wilmot Alden; and his parents-in-law, Theodore Vorhaben and Josephine Kaul Vorhaben.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Covenant Home for their attentive and loving care.

Donations in John’s memory may be made to Covenant Home, The Salvation Army, Bridge House/Grace House, or a charity of your choice.

A Memorial Mass will be held at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 9:00 a.m.