News Summary
Harold Alton Pesses, a dedicated community figure in New Orleans, has passed away at the age of 71 after a battle with gastric cancer. Known for his extensive contributions and leadership in various organizations, Pesses returned to New Orleans post-Hurricane Katrina to assist in rebuilding efforts. He leaves behind a legacy of service, love for his family, and numerous contributions to education and community well-being. His funeral services will be held on August 31, 2025.
New Orleans, LA – Harold Alton Pesses, a prominent figure in the New Orleans community, passed away on August 29, 2025, at the age of 71 after battling complications from gastric cancer. He died in Metairie, Louisiana, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love for his community and family.
Pesses was born on September 19, 1953, to the late Albert and Naomi Pesses. He was a lifelong resident of New Orleans, returning to the city post-Hurricane Katrina to assist in the rebuilding efforts. Harold’s strong ties to his community were evident, as he was actively involved in numerous organizations and held leadership positions throughout his life.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Janet Pesses, as well as three children: Daniel Craig Pesses, Nancy Hannah Pesses, and Samuel Morris Pailet, who is married to Becca Pailet. Harold was also the proud grandfather of Jack Eli Pailet. In addition to his immediate family, he leaves behind his siblings, Leon Ronald Pesses (Debbie) and Marilyn Goldie Pesses Kay (Martin), and his brother-in-law, Dr. Jay Hillel Joseph (Stacy).
Community Contributions and Leadership
Harold Pesses was known for his extensive community involvement. After graduating from John F. Kennedy High School and later the University of New Orleans with a degree in Business (Insurance), he founded Care Insurance Services in 1979, which remains operational today. His leadership qualities earned him the title of president in several organizations, including the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, Hillel at LSU, and the Brotherhood at Congregation Gates of Prayer. He also led the Congregation Beth Israel Synagogue and served as president of the International B’nai B’rith Bowling Association.
In addition to his organizational leadership, Harold was passionate about education and dedicated many years to teaching at Congregation Gates of Prayer, where he helped students prepare for their bar and bat mitzvahs. His ability to connect with students made him a beloved figure in the religious education community.
Personal Interests and Legacy
Harold had a deep love for theater and spent a significant amount of his free time attending shows at the Saenger Theatre and Rivertown Theater for the Performing Arts. He cherished moments shared with friends and family, often dining out for rib eye steaks and other New Orleans delicacies, as well as enjoying his favorite treat, chocolate soup snowballs.
The Pesses family expressed their gratitude to the medical professionals and caregivers who provided support during Harold’s illness, including Dr. Jon Mizrahi, Dr. David Pointer, Dr. Danielle Nodurft, Visiting Angel Charlotte Piper, and Home Health nurse Laura Cook. The Heart of Hospice Nurses also played a vital role in offering care and comfort during his final days.
Funeral Arrangements
Funeral services for Harold Pesses will take place on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at the Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home in New Orleans. Visitation will commence at 9:30 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Rabbi Yossie Nemes and Rabbi David Gerber. Burial will follow at Beth Israel Cemetery, located at 4321 Frenchmen Street, New Orleans.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, Congregation Beth Israel, Congregation Gates of Prayer, or a charity of one’s choice.
Harold Alton Pesses was a loving son, husband, brother, father, grandfather, and friend whose impact on the community and dedication to his family will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Harold Pesses Obituary
- Wikipedia: Harold Pesses
- Legacy: Albert Pesses Obituary
- Google Search: Harold Pesses
- Dignity Memorial: Evelyn Joseph Obituary
- Google Scholar: Harold Pesses
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
