Irvin D. Fulton Jr.

With profound sorrow and deep love, we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and friend, Irvin David Fulton Jr., who was gently called home on Friday, August 30, 2024, at the age of 82. Born in New Orleans, LA, Irvin Fulton Jr. was a man of quiet strength, boundless love, and a heart full of compassion. His life was a testament to the power of kindness, dedication, and unwavering commitment to those he cherished. He touched countless lives with his gentle spirit, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of all who knew him. Irvin’s life was one of service. As an embalmer and funeral director, he dedicated his career to guiding families through their most challenging times, offering comfort and solace when it was needed most. His work was not just a profession, but a true calling—one that he embraced with deep empathy and respect. Specializing in facial reconstruction and embalming, Irvin ensured that every individual he cared for was presented with the utmost dignity, helping families find peace and closure. During his distinguished career, Irvin served at several historic funeral homes in New Orleans, including Lockett Federal Funeral Home, Dennis Mortuary Services, Littlejohn Funeral Home, Charbonnet-Labat-Glapion Funeral Home, Estelle J. Wilson Funeral Home, and Murray Henderson Funeral Home. At each of these institutions, he was a pillar of strength, ensuring that every life he honored was celebrated with dignity and care. His presence brought peace to many, and his gentle words of comfort provided a light in the darkest moments. For over 40 years, Irvin was an esteemed member of the New Orleans Embalmer's Association, where he served as a past president and continued as a dedicated current member. He was recognized as a leader and mentor, providing guidance to both his peers and the families he served. His dedication to his craft was matched only by his compassion for those he cared for, earning him admiration and gratitude throughout his career. Irvin’s work as a funeral director extended beyond local families. Over the years, he directed or assisted with the funerals of several celebrities and government officials. Most notably, he had the great honor of assisting with the funeral of legendary gospel singer Mahalia Jackson in 1972. His professionalism and care were evident in every service he touched, ensuring that even the most high-profile funerals were conducted with dignity and respect. Irvin’s commitment to his community was equally profound. As a Hall of Fame member of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, he played an integral role in the organization's growth and success. Irvin served on several key committees, including the Parade Marshalls, Lundi Gras, Carnival Activities, Zulu Memorabilia, and Zulu Souvenir Book Committees. His involvement in these committees reflected his passion for preserving the culture and heritage of Zulu, while also contributing to the club’s long-standing traditions and ensuring its continued prosperity. In addition to his work with Zulu, Irvin extended his service to the broader community by volunteering with several organizations, including the New Orleans Council on Aging, Second Harvest Food Bank, and the YMCA Home for the Holidays program on Christmas and Thanksgiving day. Through these efforts, Irvin demonstrated his deep belief in giving back and helping those in need. Beyond his professional life, Irvin found his greatest joy in the quiet beauty of nature. He was a dedicated member of the New Orleans Orchid Society (NOOS) for over 30 years, where he nurtured his love for orchids. An avid gardener, Irvin tended to his plants with the same care and dedication that he gave to all he loved. His garden was a place of serenity and reflection, where each bloom was a testament to his nurturing soul. Irvin’s love for the natural world was a source of inspiration to all who knew him, and his garden will forever be a reminder of the gentle, caring man who created it. Irvin’s love for football and the New Orleans Saints was another lifelong passion. He was a proud member of the original North End Zone Season Ticket Holders Club since 1971 and had been a Saints season ticket holder since before the Superdome existed. His loyalty and enthusiasm for his hometown team were unwavering, and he spent decades cheering on the Saints through triumphs and trials. Along with his love for football and the Mardi Gras season, Irvin also had a deep appreciation for Jack Daniels whiskey. He was an avid collector of Jack Daniels glasses and bottles and proudly held membership in the Jack Daniels Tennessee Squires Association for over 15 years. His love for celebrating life with family and friends, especially during Mardi Gras, was enhanced by his appreciation for the finer things, making him the perfect embodiment of joy and fellowship. Irvin Fulton Jr. was the devoted father of three children: Irvin David Fulton III (Earlene), Erika Elizabeth Joseph (Sean) , and Roderick Rowe Fulton (Whitney). He was also the proud grandfather of three grandchildren, Elyse and Symon Joseph and Chandler Jones, who were the light of his life and who will always hold dear the precious memories of their time with him. Irvin was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years Gay Rowe Fulton; his grandparents, Elizabeth and Edward Frezel; his parents, Vera and Irvin David Fulton, Sr.; his uncle, Pete (Anniebelle) Frezel; and his aunt, Ethel (Sidney) Harris. The memory of these cherished family members was a source of strength and inspiration to Irvin throughout his life, and he now joins them in eternal rest. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, we are reminded of the depth of his compassion, the breadth of his kindness, and the selfless service he offered to those around him. Irvin's life was a constant testament to the power of giving whether through his tender care as a funeral director, his tireless volunteer efforts, or his warm and genuine friendship to those in need. He had an innate ability to make others feel heard, valued, and understood, and his heart was always open to lend a hand or offer comfort. Irvin’s legacy is one of deep, unwavering compassion. His service to his family, friends, and community was not an obligation but a reflection of the kindness that radiated from him. His quiet yet powerful presence uplifted and strengthened everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. Though his physical presence is no longer with us, the lessons he imparted of love, service, and generosity will live on in the lives he touched. He has left an indelible mark on this world, and his memory will forever be a beacon of love, grace, and compassion. May Irvin David Fulton Jr.'s gentle soul now rest in eternal peace and may his memory forever be a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. Relatives and friends also priest and parishioners of St. David Catholic Church, employees of Littlejohn Funeral Home, Embalmers, Funeral Directors and Funeral Home Employees in the New Orleans area, officers and members of the New Orleans Embalmers Association and Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club are invited to attend the Homegoing Celebration on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at St. James Methodist Church, 1925 Ursulines Avenue, beginning 10 am. Elder Jacob Brown, officiating. Church visitation 8:30 am until 10 am ONLY. Entombment Lafayette Cemetery No. 2 Cemetery. Professional Services Entrusted to: Littlejohn Funeral Home, 2163 Aubry Street, Cal K. Johnson, Manager. Info: 504-940-0045.