Big Duck's Legacy Lives On in New Orleans | New Orleans News

New Orleans mourns the loss of civil rights icon Jerome Smith, aka “Big Duck,” who died at 87 after a cancer battle. A powerhouse of the 60s movement, he rode Freedom Rides, led boycotts, and co-founded Tamborine and Fan to preserve Black culture for youth. Thousands turned out in yellow and red for a vibrant second line procession through his beloved neighborhoods, stopping at landmarks like Treme Center and Hunter’s Field — the park he helped save from highway destruction. Dancers trailed a horse-drawn carriage bearing his casket, echoing his spirit of joy and resistance. At Hunter’s Field, the community roared his organization’s creed, proving his legacy lives on across generations. Pay your respects at Gallier Hall on Friday, then join the celebration of life at Mahalia Jackson Theater on Saturday. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a3e6545b5ba656b4