Michael Ralph Jamison

Michael Ralph Jamison passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 2, 2020, just days after his 66th birthday. A loving father, Mike is survived by his two daughters, Jessica Louise Jamison Higgins and Michelle Rebecca Jamison Ghirardi; son-in-law Anthony Peter Ghirardi, Sr.; his four grandsons, who affectionately called him “Boo” or “Obi”, Michael John, Caleb Harrison, and Jude Benjamin Higgins, Anthony Peter Ghirardi, Jr., and baby Ghirardi, due August 2020. He is also survived by his mother, Sharon Jamison Gant (Dennis), sister Kim Jamison, uncle Dale Johnson, former wife Dr. Wendy Jamison, former son-in-law Michael Higgins, Sr., several nieces, nephews and cousins, and dear friend and companion Laurie Ketteringham. Mike was predeceased by his father, John Norman Jamison, brother John “Jay” Norman Jamison, Jr., sister Sherri Jamison, and grandparents Ralph and Pat Johnson.
Mike was born in Denver, Colorado, lived in Duluth, Minnesota, and moved with his family to New Orleans. He grew up in New Orleans East in Pines Village, and attended Brother Martin High School, UNO and Southeastern Louisiana University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology. Mike worked as an Organizational Effectiveness Advisor at Shell Oil Company, Shell Chemical, and Motiva Enterprises for over 30 years. After retiring from Shell, he provided leadership coaching and consulting services. While at Shell, he enjoyed mentoring high school students through Junior Achievement.
Mike was a devout Catholic, a Man of Manresa, and a proud member of Knights of Columbus Marquette Council 1437. He served as a former Grand Knight, a former District Deputy, and Past President of the Marquette Home Building and Improvement Association. He loved his brother Knights and shared many hours of camaraderie at the Marquette Home.
Mike’s passion was his family and all things New Orleans. He never missed a Jazz Fest, but this Jazz Fest Saturday, rather than festin’ in place, Mike decided to enjoy the music in Heaven with Dr. John. He loved Mardi Gras and was a longtime member of the Krewe of Caesar, proudly serving as Float Lieutenant and escort to his daughters and nieces during their respective years reigning as Maids and Princesses. A devoted and longtime Saints season ticket holder, Mike loved taking his family to Saints games, and just last season took his youngest grandson A.J. to his first game after turning one. Mike loved spending time with his grandsons, whether it be cheering for Michael Jr. at his baseball games, swimming with Caleb, or laughing at animals at the Audubon Zoo with Jude.
Mike loved festivals, Disney, family beach trips, philosophical discussions, crawfish boils, and outdoor barbeques (“Just let us know when the ribs will be ready”). He appreciated all kinds of music and is certainly now climbing the Stairway to Heaven. Mike was loyal and made friends for life. A talented glass blower, he delighted in gifting his friends and family with his artistic glass creations.
Mike was generous, friendly, witty, loving, compassionate, fun and fun-loving. He never met a stranger, and he could warm you with his smile. He was always there to help or lend a hand (or his truck). He made you laugh even when you weren’t supposed to.
When the Lord calls our loved ones home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange; memories are the legacy of love. A Memorial Mass will be at 12:15 PM on Saturday, November 7, 2020 in the J. Garic Schoen Chapel of JACOB SCHOEN & SON FUNERAL HOME, 3827 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70119. Visitation will begin at 10:15 AM. The Memorial Mass will be live streamed. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, please practice social distancing and wear a mask.

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