Edward Staton

After a lengthy illness, Edward Staton passed away September 28, 2012 at the age of 74. Staton had been a resident of the New Orleans area since 1964 when his love of sports brought him to the Times Picayune as a sports writer.

When the New Orleans Saints kicked off their franchise in 1967, Staton was the team’s first public relations director. Throughout his career, the award-winning journalist continued to spotlight the Saints and LSU through his work as the editor of publications such as Grid Week and Saints World. More recently the LSU graduate applied his writing expertise and wit to the online publication, the Bayou Buzz.

Ed’s love of Louisiana sports and its festive lifestyle extended beyond traditional journalism as he captured popular subjects on canvas and through the lens of his 35 MM camera. Staton also expressed his creativity on the other side of the camera by enjoying roles in numerous films produced in New Orleans. Friends and family marveled at his artistic ability and how it complimented his tough guy demeanor that he exhibited as a championship high school QB and Golden Gloves boxer.

As a family man and friend, Ed was an encourager who always found the positives in the ones he loved. He also approached life with the Staton tradition of always having a joke or story ready to share with those nearby.

Survivors include his son, Ed Staton of Madison, MS; a sister, Jane Savage of Kenner, three nieces and granddaughters.

Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home in Metairie is handling the local arrangements, but plans for a memorial service are still incomplete. The online guestbook is available at www.leitzeaganfuneralhome.com.