New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell’s ‘dedicated husband’ Jason dies at age 55 as his heartbroken daughter, 16, posts sweet family photos
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s “devoted husband” has passed away at the age of 55. city officials have announced.
Jason Cantrell was a lawyer and the son of former New Orleans Criminal District Court Magistrate Judge Harry Cantrell. The date and cause of his death have not been given.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 24 years and their daughter, RayAnn, who shared heartwarming family photos on Instagram as she paid tribute to him Monday afternoon.
She posted photos of her dad hugging her as a toddler, and a more recent family photo with the mayor in it.
News of his death comes amid swirling rumors that his Democrat wife was having an affair behind his back – something she has denied.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s “devoted husband” has passed away, city officials have announced. His date of death and cause have not been given
The couple’s daughter, RayAnn, shared heartwarming family photos on Instagram as she paid tribute to him on Monday afternoon.
The Cantrells tied the knot in September 1999 – next month they would have been married for 24 years
Insights into her personal life were revealed earlier this year through a police investigation into Officer Jeffrey Vappie.
The agent spent time with the married mother of a child in her apartment in the exclusive French Quarter.
Vappie’s wife has since filed for divorce over an affair dating back to 2021, though Cantrell claims their relationship was “strictly professional.”
The city of Orleans announced the death of her husband Monday morning through communications director Gregory Joseph.
“It is with great sadness and heartbreak that we announce the passing of First Gentleman Jason Cantrell,” said Joseph.
“He was a devoted husband and father, as well as a dedicated public servant who valiantly served the citizens of this city, not only alongside Mayor Cantrell, but also as an accomplished family, civil, and criminal defense attorney.
First Gentleman Cantrell will be forever missed and cherished by his beloved family, the legal community and the entire city of New Orleans. May he rest in God’s eternal peace.
“Our love and prayers remain with Mayor Cantrell, their daughter RayAnn and the entire Cantrell family.
“We ask that you respect their privacy during this challenging time.”
Jason Cantrell “was a devoted husband and father, as well as a dedicated public servant who valiantly served the citizens of this city, not only alongside Mayor Cantrell, but also as an experienced family, civil and criminal defense attorney,” New Orleans City said in a statement.
Cantrell speaks at the CROWN Awards ceremony at the Grand Ballroom of the Westin Hotel on July 3, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana
According to Fox New Orleans, Vappie (pictured) spent 112 hours in Cantrell’s apartment over a 27-day period, and was even seen watering her plants
Vappie and Cantrell are spotted walking together outside her beautiful apartment in the French Quarter
In May 2018, California native Cantrell was elected as the first female mayor of New Orleans, Louisiana, in its 300-year history, with Jason serving as an official at her side.
They would have been married for 24 years next month, according to the mayor’s social media post marking their 20th anniversary on Sept. 4, 2019.
New Orleans City Council Vice President Helena Moreno said officials are “saddened and shocked” by the news of Jason’s death.
“We are all saddened and shocked by the loss of Jason Cantrell,” she said.
“I, along with my entire staff, extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Mayor Cantrell and her entire family on the passing of her husband.
“The Cantrell family has lost a father, son and husband and I encourage all residents of New Orlean to lift the mayor and her family in prayer at this tragic and difficult time.”