Celebrating the legacy of Jacob Taranto III through community service.
Jacob Taranto III, a respected attorney from New Orleans, has passed away at 82, surrounded by family. Known for his legal contributions and community service, Jake’s legacy of love and kindness impacts all who knew him. A memorial service is planned to celebrate his life and achievements.
New Orleans – Jacob Taranto III, a revered attorney and beloved family man, passed away on July 10, 2025, at the age of 82. He died peacefully, surrounded by his loving wife, Valerie Jo Boutte, and their children, Tara Lee Taranto Muller and Todd Jacob Taranto.
Born on November 3, 1942, in New Orleans, Jake was deeply rooted in the culture of his hometown. The eldest son of Jacob Taranto II and Althea Estopinal Taranto, he spent his childhood in an environment that shaped his adventurous spirit and strong curiosity. He attended St. James Major Elementary School and continued his education at Holy Cross High School before earning a degree in Liberal Arts from Louisiana State University in New Orleans in 1965. He further pursued the law, receiving his Juris Doctor from Loyola University School of Law in 1968.
Jake’s legal career was marked by a series of influential roles. He began as an Associate at the Law Firm of Frederick Gisevius, Jr., followed by a position as Assistant City Attorney under Blake G. Arata. Eventually, he practiced privately at The Law Offices of Jacob Taranto III. Notably, he served as General Counsel to the City Council of New Orleans and the Sewerage and Water Board. Jake was a dedicated member of the Louisiana State Bar and the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity.
Throughout his career, Jake was committed to community service. He actively participated in the Rotary Club and served on the board of Archbishop Rummel High School, demonstrating his dedication to improving the lives of those around him.
Jake’s personal life was equally fulfilling. He married Valerie on August 20, 1966, after having known each other since they were 15-year-old neighbors on Clematis Street. Their marriage lasted nearly 59 years, during which time they raised two children, Tara and Todd, and welcomed five grandchildren: Amelia, Beau, Mason, Manning, and Baylor. Known as “Poppy,” Jake cherished creating memories with his grandchildren, enjoying activities like reading spy thrillers, watching classic television shows such as The Pink Panther and Seinfeld, and indulging in simple pleasures like coffee and movie theater popcorn.
Jake’s Catholic faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted parishioner at St. Pius X Catholic Church and later at St. Michael the Archangel in Houston. His values of love, service, humor, and kindness left a profound impact on those who knew him.
Surviving Jake are his wife Valerie, daughter Tara Muller (Sean), son Todd Taranto (Bridgette), and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Robert Taranto (Kay), sister Melinda Taranto Kirschenheuter (Gary), and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Captain Morgan Boutte and Cassandra Boutte, and nephew Jacob Kirschenheuter.
In honor of his life and contributions, a Memorial Funeral Mass will be held on August 2, 2025, at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home in New Orleans. Jake Taranto III will be remembered as a passionate legal advocate, devoted family man, and cherished friend, whose legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.
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