Edmond Maurice Brignac Jr.

Edmond Maurice Brignac, Jr. died on October 16, 2022, at the age of 91. He considered himself a lifelong New Orleanian, although he loved his teenage years spent in Bay St. Louis. He was a graduate of St. Stanislaus College Prep and The University of Mississippi. A professional Civil Engineer, he served as a 2nd Lt. in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict and then as a Captain in the LA National Guard Corps of Engineers from 1954-1965.

He began his career in his family’s business, Industrial Electric, Inc. and Industrial Outdoor Displays, becoming President and serving as Director of the National Electric Sign Assn. during that time. In addition, he was the owner and president of Gulf Pines, Inc.

A devout Catholic, Eddie dedicated his life in service to his church, St. Francis Xavier, as a member of the Parish Council, Finance Committee and for over 55 years as a lector and Eucharistic minister. He enjoyed contributing to the community, and his faith led to his work with the Archdiocese of New Orleans. He served on several boards as both member and chair; including the Archbishop’s Community Appeal for 27 years, The Catholic Foundation, Archdiocese of N.O. Catholic Charities, The Little Sisters of the Poor, and The Academy of the Sacred Heart where his four girls attended.

As a member of the Knights of Columbus, he was the recipient of the Order of St. Louis medal from the Archdiocese of New Orleans, and he was Knighted as a member of The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. A highlight of his year was attending an annual silent retreat at Manresa Retreat House, which he did faithfully for over 70 years. Eddie’s greatest joys were being surrounded by his girls, participating in several carnival organizations, especially once as reigning monarch and many years as a riding lieutenant, attending daily Mass, lunch at Fury’s, JazzFest, and relaxing with his pipe.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Janet Perrault; parents, Eunice Maitre and Edmond M. Brignac; and sister, Diane B. Ladner. He is survived by four daughters: Michele Brignac (Henry), Aimée Brignac, Denise B. Smith, Nicole B. Barnes (Donnie); grandchildren, Wilson Smith, Corinne S. Hunt (Drew), Gigi Smith, Aimée Barnes, Langley Barnes, Trey Barnes, Beau Brignac; and great-granddaughter, River Hunt. His younger brother, Albert Brignac (Nancy) also survives him. A private family Mass and burial were held. Eddie’s wish was that in lieu of flowers, memorials be considered to St. Francis Xavier Parish, 444 Metairie Rd Metairie, LA 70005 or Manresa Retreat House, P.O. Box 89, Convent, LA 70723.