James Edward Berrigan, Sr.

On September 18th James “Jim” Berrigan, Sr. passed into God’s graces after a brief illness. He was born in New Orleans, LA to the late Joseph and Ruth Berrigan. Jim was the beloved husband to Kay Parent Berrigan for 62 wonderful years. He is survived by his loving wife Kay, and his brother Patrick J. Berrigan (Barbara).

Jim is survived by his four children, James E. Berrigan, Jr. (Laurie), Brian P. Berrigan (Kathryn), Karen T. Berrigan and Katherine M. Wendelstedt (Hunter). Jim had 11 grandchildren, Megan Berrigan, Kaley Berrigan Worley (Austin), Mollie Berrigan Frazier (Lance), Sean Berrigan, Kyle Gannon, Daniel Gannon, Bailey Berrigan Grote (William), Michael Berrigan (Camille), James Berrigan, III, Bridget Wendelstedt and Hailey Wendelstedt. Jim was also blessed with 13 adoring great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. Jim was predeceased by his brother, Joseph R. Berrigan, Jr., his son William R. Berrigan and his grandson, Blake B. Berrigan.

Jim was a proud graduate of Jesuit High School class of 1952 and Loyola University (BA) class of 1956. At Loyola, he served as President of his beloved Beggars fraternity. Upon graduation from Loyola, Jim served as a tank commander and instructor in the United States Army Reserve. He maintained a relationship with the Army Reserve where he excelled as an accomplished marksman. Jim had a long and successful career as an Independent Manufacturer’s Representative, importing glass from several European exporters. He was very proud of his Irish heritage and served as Treasurer of the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

Jim was a devote Catholic and was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Gentilly Council. Jim had a great passion for cooking and loved to entertain, as evidenced in the pleasure he derived from being surrounded by family and friends in his Gentilly home. He was always quick with a joke and the lighting of a cigar. Jim loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing, a passion he passed on to his children and grandchildren. Jim was a lover of History. He had a vast knowledge of the Civil War and World War II which he shared with all interested.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at 12:00 PM, at Lake Lawn Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, on Saturday, September 30, 2023. A visitation will be held at the Funeral Home at 10:00 AM followed by Mass. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Jim’s memory to Jesuit High School New Orleans, 4133 Banks Street, New Orleans, LA 70119 or visit www.jesuitnola.org.