Ronald Warner, retired securities attorney, Tulane supporter

RONALD WARNER, a successful attorney whose specialty was in areas of finance, banking and securities and who retired to New Orleans less than two years ago, died suddenly on January 17.

Warner was noted for his love of sports, especially baseball, which he developed at an early age. Born in Brooklyn, Warner moved with his family as a young boy to Linden, NJ. Despite meager beginnings, Warner was a great student athlete and a brilliant student. He worked as a printer’s assistant and at various odd jobs before accepting a full scholarship to Tulane University.

He played on the Tulane University baseball team and established a lifelong attachment to the various sports programs as well as a love for the city of New Orleans. Following his graduation from Tulane, Warner enrolled at the New York University (NYU) School of Law, from which he graduated first in his class.

He was known as a highly ethical attorney, which oftentimes presented problems with several clients from the banking and securities industries. Partners and associates noted he would fire a client if there were any hint of impropriety or suggestion that he not conduct his business within the framework of what was permissible under the law.

Warner was married for a time to his first wife in Los Angeles and the couple had sons Brad and Steve before divorcing. While still reeling from the heartbreak of the divorce, Warner was introduced to his second wife Nechama Jacobs, a banker whose husband had just died. Their first “date” was at Los Angeles Dodgers Stadium, where she brought her four-year-old daughter Ali to a game. Warner accepted her as his own from the start of the relationship. A sports backer for all of his children’s athletic endeavors, he was frequently at the softball games and soccer matches for his sons and in recent years became an avid supporter for volleyball games in which his daughter played. Even though he lived in Los Angeles for much of his professional career, Warner was a season ticket holder for Tulane baseball games. He donated the tickets to St. Michael’s Special School for Children.

When Brad died ten years ago, Warner set up a memorial in his name and a garden outside Turgeon Stadium, where Tulane plays their games, was created.

After Warner retired, he and his wife purchased a home in Uptown New Orleans, which was still being renovated at the time of his passing.  The Warners became avid supporters of Tulane University, including the Tulane Hillel House.

He is survived by his wife Nehama, his son Steve and daughter Ali and several grandchildren.

A chapel service conducted by  was held on Sunday, January 20 at Tharp-Sontheier-Tharp Funeral Home, 1600 North Causeway Boulevard, at 11:00 am. with interment at Dispersed of Judah Cemetery, 4937 Canal Street. Tulane Hillel House Rabbi Yonah Schiller officiated at both ceremonies.

Shiva minyanim will be held at the Uptown residence of Nehama Warner tonight  and Monday evening at 5:30 p.m.