Jamie Galloway

James ‘Jamie’ Galloway III, a musician and chef beloved on Oak Street, died Friday. He was 41. From Baton Rouge to the Riverbend people are turning to one another to remember and honor their friend, who was known for his big heart and gentle, loving personality.

Originally from Alexandria, Galloway made his life in New Orleans providing his friends and fans with two staples of assured happiness: good food and good music.  A fiber in the fabric of the New Orleans music scene for the past two decades, he played alongside Dave Jordan in the band Juice, providing harmonica, percussion and vocals.

Jordan and Galloway have known each other for more than 20 years, rooming together at LSU and continuing their friendship through entertaining the masses.

“He was extremely loving.  A salt of the Earth type of guy.  He embodied NOLA culture in every way, a friendly personality that was a great cook, played great music and it was always about having a great time,”  Jordan said. “Thankfully, we have his music and video of him so his legacy will live on.”

In addition to spreading happiness through music, Jamie made sure everyone around him was well fed. Throughout his career, Galloway worked at some of New Orleans finest establishments, such as Commander’s Palace, Dickey Brennen’s Steakhouse and Jacque Imo’s.

“He was a great guy, always easy keeled; I really enjoyed working with him and will miss just being able to just say Hi to him,” said Executive Chef Jacques Leonardi.

Sentiments such as those were shared by all on Facebook walls of his friends and on his own.  Jamie was indeed a favorite of all who knew him.

“Jamie, there was always great truth behind your eyes and your smile. You called it like you saw it and you made many great choices - friendship, music and good eats always being on top. Much love to a solid friend and to your family. I'll be sure to see you in the afterworld. Until then .... Respect," said friend Mark Morice.

He was remembered by friend Alex Dmytraczenko as “…the embodiment of genuine kindness and warmth. Those qualities shined through in every conversation we had, every tune you played us and every meal you ever cooked. While I will miss them all from this day forth, I feel blessed for having shared them with you. My heart goes out during difficult time to your family and all your close friends, especially to your brothers in Juice. RIP”.

Musicians and fans alike since Friday have been gathering in celebrations of the positive influence he and his life has had on them had and not dwelling in the sorrows of a young life lost.

True to form, friends are organizing a proper second line Parade in honor of Galloway's memory on March 3 at the Maple Leaf, and information on how to join to the celebration of Jamie Galloway’s life can be found on Facebook. Details are not concrete, as permits are problematic. Regardless, show up to the Maple Leaf on Sunday at around 3 p.m. and join the who’s-who of New Orleans music send Jamie off in the only way he would want, a big ass party.

There is an with an official Memorial service and visitation happening this evening at Rest Haven on Jefferson Hwy in Baton Rouge from 5pm-8pm with funeral details yet to be released.

Information on tonight’s service can be found here.