Civic activist, Barbara Lacen Keller, dies at 76

Posted: Jan 16, 2023 / 06:14 PM EST

Updated: Jan 21, 2023 / 03:30 PM EST

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NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Memorial services have been scheduled for Barbara Lacen Keller, a longtime New Orleans civic activist who died Monday.

Memorial Service

Thursday, January 26
Viewing 6:30-7:30 p.m., memorial service to follow
Located at Mardi Gras World (1380 Port of New Orleans Place)

Funeral Service

Saturday, January 28
Viewing 8-10 a.m.
Funeral at 10 a.m.
Jazz procession to follow
Located at New Home Family Worship Center (1605 Robert C. Blakes, Sr. Drive)

Loved ones say Keller passed after a brief illness. She recently retired after a long career working in different capacities at New Orleans city hall and served on a host of boards, including the Jazz and Heritage Foundation, WWOZ, and Preservation Resource Center.

I am extremely saddened to hear the news of the passing of my dear friend Barbara Lacen-Keller. Barbara, known to many as ‘The Mayor of Central City,’ was a beloved community member and long-time activist.

Barbara had a decorated career spanning more than 30 years.
🙏🙏🙏

1/3 pic.twitter.com/H5GMjN5QYe
— Mayor LaToya Cantrell (@mayorcantrell) January 17, 2023

Keller was a staunch advocate of the city’s second line culture and was a member of the Lady Buck Jumpers Social Aid and Pleasure Club. She also served as a member and chaplain of the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale’ Mardi Gras organization.

Keller was 76 years old.

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