James M. Duckworth

James Marion Duckworth passed away peacefully at his home in Metairie, Louisiana, on October 2nd, 2024. Jimmy is survived by his children, James, Elizabeth, Patrick, Eileen, and Wendy. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as a sister. Jimmy was predeceased by his loving wife of 73 years, Marie Elise Shea Duckworth. He was also predeceased by his parents, Julius and Marion Duckworth, and by his many grandparents and uncles whom he loved so dearly.

Jimmy was a proud graduate of Metairie High School. A true Patriot, Jimmy proudly served his country in the Korean War. He worked at his grandfather’s tire business from the time he was a small child. In 1966, Jimmy and Marie Elise took a major risk and started their own business from scratch. They took this risk despite having three young children and little money to their names. After countless years of hard work and long hours, Jimmy and Marie Elise grew their business into five locations across the Greater New Orleans area. Jimmy was a brilliant businessman and used his traits of honesty and integrity to enjoy great success in building valuable customer relationships. He was also a renowned bowler, winning numerous local tournaments in his younger days. Jimmy was always willing to lend a helping hand to his family and fellow man. He had many interests, including helping build the Higgins Landing Craft that is on display in the National World War II Museum, spending time helping his grandchildren, giving them each so many rides to their events to the point that they called it “Pop Pop’s Taxi Service.” Jimmy also loved traveling with Marie Elise, making numerous trips to the Northeast and Europe. Most of all, Jimmy loved gathering with his family, enjoying many celebratory occasions through the years. Jimmy’s legacy to his loved ones is one of hard-work, determination, and grit.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Catherine of Siena Church on Friday, October 11th, at12:00 p.m. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be in Metairie Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jimmy’s memory to the Save St. Mary’s fund at St. Mary’s Assumption Church of St. Alphonsus Parish, to which Jimmy felt a special connection.

The family would like to thank all the ladies who cared for Pops.