Retired salesman Joseph Jerome Kanter passes away at 91

JOSEPH JEROME KANTER, a retired salesman, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on October 31, 2024. He was 91.

JOSEPH JEROME KANTER

Born and raised in Oneonta, Alabama, he was known as “Jerome” by his friends and contemporary family members. He was  a gifted athlete on his high school football field and a strong swimmer. Following his graduation, he  attended the University of Alabama, becoming a lifelong ‘Bama fan, before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

While attending the university, he met the love of his life, Sandra Cotlar, and eventually followed her back to her beloved hometown, New Orleans. They married and settled in Metairie, where they raised their three daughters.

Known for his warmth, patience, fun stories, and endearing sense of humor, his magnetic personality contributed to his success in sales for Southern Shoe Company, his father-in-law’s business. He sold shoes to a number of small businesses in the Deep South – both Black- and White-owned – not the usual practice of the time, but respected all of his customers.

He was a passionate lover of music, especially that of Frank Sinatra, Neil Diamond and Louis Armstrong. He was also an avid reader and loved sharing his love for World War II novels and the poetry of Edgar Guest. He enjoyed long mornings golfing and cheering on his favorite sports teams: the University of Alabama, the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans.

He was predeceased by his wife of 62 years Sandra Cotlar Kanter in 2020 and is survived by his daughters, Cathy Bart (Morris), Wendy Rones (David), and Judy Lieberman (Glenn),  eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Dr. Alvin Cotlar (Dr. Ginger Rogers) and a sister-in-law, Nomi Kanter.

Funeral services were held at Congregation Gates of Prayer, 4000 West Esplanade Ave., Metairie, LA 70002, on Sunday, November 3, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. Rabbi David Gerber officiated. Interment followed at Beth Israel Cemetery, 4321 Frenchman St.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Gates of Prayer or Congregation Beth Israel. Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. To view and sign the online guest book, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.