James A. "JV" Vinson

James Alan Vinson passed away on April 11, 2026, at age 70, near his home. James was born on April 7, 1956, in Chicago, IL. James is preceded in death by his father, James Alton Vinson; his mother, Ellen Crabtree Vinson, formerly of Tennessee; and his half-brother, James Quinn, of Chicago, IL.

James is survived by a daughter, Jennifer; four grandchildren: Carol, Alexis, Christopher, and Isabella Dyrkacz; and a son, Jason Dyrkacz.

James is also survived by his brother, John (Mary) from Dorchester, Wl, two nephews: Brandon (Anna), John (LJ)(Beverly), and four nieces and nephews: Claire, lain, Elliot, and Auroa.

At age 15, James became a Horse Groomer and Trainer at two racetracks in the Chicago, IL area: Arlington Heights and Balmoral Park. The people he worked for decided to send him and several horses to the Shreveport, LA racetrack to work. Eventually, James and the horses would make their way to the Fairgrounds in New Orleans, LA.

After Hurricane Katrina, James found work at several New Orleans-based companies, including Gootee Construction and Taylor-Seidenbach Inc., where he retired.

James loved animals, especially horses and dogs; Sassy, a dachshund, and Cookie, a Yorkshire terrier, who were his constant companions.

JV loved Sci-Fi movies, Godzilla, Star Wars, Star Trek, Game of Thrones, old movies on Comet and MeTV, and listening to AC/DC. JV was a true, loyal, caring friend who will be sorely missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held for James on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Metairie, LA 70006. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to an animal charity, rescue, or sanctuary of your choice.