Jerri Leonard Klein

Born on September 2, 1935, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Jerri later moved to Birmingham before making New Orleans her lifelong home. It was there that she built a remarkable life with her beloved husband of more than 60 years, Burton G. Klein, who preceded her in death in 2023. Together they created a home centered on love, generosity, and family.

Jerri is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Wooton (Michael), and her son, Stephen Klein. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Ryan Aldridge (Maddie) and Mason Wooton, and a cherished great-grandmother to Carter Aldridge and Owen Aldridge, who brought her endless joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donnie Leonard and Michael Leonard; her husband, Burton G. Klein; her brother, Bill Leonard; and her sister-in-law, Rosemary Leonard. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom she loved dearly and remained close to throughout her life.

Jerri believed that family was life's greatest blessing. Whether celebrating holidays, cheering on her grandchildren, or simply spending time together, she treasured every moment with those she loved. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering support left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Beyond her family, Jerri devoted countless hours to making New Orleans a better place. Her civic involvement earned her numerous honors throughout her lifetime. She was recognized by the New Orleans City Council for her community service, served as President of Cancer Crusaders, was named Jefferson Parish Woman of the Year, served on the board of Lafreniere Park, was President of the Jefferson Parish General Hospital Women's Auxiliary, and was an active member of the Metairie Women's Association. Her dedication to charitable organizations touched countless lives.

Perhaps no organization held a more special place in Jerri's heart than the Fore!Kids Foundation. For more than 50 years, she poured her time, energy, and passion into its mission of improving the lives of children throughout the region. One of her proudest accomplishments came in 2006 when she served as Chair of the Zurich Classic, becoming the first woman to chair a men's PGA Tour event. She considered the friendships she built through Fore!Kids to be among the greatest blessings of her life, and she was immensely proud of the difference the organization continues to make in the community.

Jerri's legacy is one of service, compassion, generosity, and unconditional love. She never sought recognition for her efforts, but her impact on her family, her friends, and the New Orleans community will be felt for generations.

The family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with Burt, the love of her life, and that her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and the many lives she touched.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Alan Yager and his exceptional nurse, Arlene, for their compassionate care and kindness. They also extend their sincere thanks to Rabbi David Gerber, who was not only a treasured neighbor but also a dear friend, and to Brandy Pigeon, whose unwavering love, support, and presence meant so much to both Jerri and Burt throughout the years.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated.

A visitation will be held at Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Boulevard, beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, and will be followed by a private graveside service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Fore!Kids Foundation, a cause that was especially close to Jerri's heart.