A Second Line Send-Off
To Celebrate A Life Well-Loved
The Second Line
If you chatted with Jeremy Herschaft long enough, your conversation would likely wind its way back to his days in New Orleans. It was there that he was born in 1977, and met the love of his life, Meroe, nearly 30 years later. The Big Easy remained a part of Jeremy’s fabric, even long after they left. We will honor Jeremy’s NOLA days and his joyful spirit with a traditional New Orleans-style street parade! The Grand Marshall and brass band will lead the way and friends, family, and community members are invited to dress up, dance, celebrate and move forward together.
The Route
SATURDAY OCT 3
3:30- 4:30 PM
Gather at 3:30pm at the corner of Loretto Dr and W Main Street to get your handkerchief and participate in a joyful kick-off. The brass band will begin the procession promptly at 4pm.
Note: The distance is a little less than one mile, wear shoes for walking and dancing. If you are unable to make the full distance, you are welcome to join where you can. Celebratory attire encouraged. (See details in the FAQ below.)
The Route:
Straight on W Main Street
Right on McDuffie Street
West Alabama Ice House
4:30- 6:30 PM (TBD)
The procession will end at The West Alabama Ice House (1919 Alabama Ave), a neighborhood bar that holds a special place for Jeremy and the friends who loved him. Last spring Jeremy held a fundraiser here to support glioblastoma research. On October 3rd, we’ll return to the bar’s backyard patio to toast Jeremy, and share stories about the man whose life impacted so many.
RSVP
Let us know if you can make it!
FAQs
Where will we meet?
1
We will gather promptly at 3:30pm on the corner of Loretto Drive and W Main Street (Menil Green). The Grand Marshall will kick us off, and we will begin the procession with the brass band at 4pm.
Is parking available?
2
Neighborhood street parking is available, but limited. Ride shares, Ubers/Lyfts and alternate transportation are encouraged. Drop-off/parking location is between the corner of Loretto Drive and W Main Street and the West Alabama Ice House.
What are the parade rules?
3
Be mindful that we are walking through residential neighborhoods-- no public drinking, littering, or walking on lawns. The streets will not be closed, so we will be using sidewalks and obeying all traffic laws. If you notice an area feels crowded, hang back. We want to keep this both joyful and calm.
Is there another way to honor Jeremy’s legacy?
4
In memory of Jeremy, and in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to The Memorial Park Conservancy in Jeremy’s name or Jeremy’s MD Anderson’s Bootwalk To End Cancer Fundraiser Page.
Should I dress up?
5
Yes! This is an invitation to celebrate Jeremy in the way that feels right to you. He was a man of many passions and looks, and never backed down from the chance to go all-out. Special recognition will be given to those who honor his sense of style and whimsy. For inspiration, see the photo gallery below. We'll have some handkerchiefs and parasols to hand out, but feel free to bring your own! Be sure to wear comfortable walking/dancing shoes.
SHARE YOUR STORY
Jeremy left so many wonderful people and stories behind, and his family wants to remember all of them. They have created an audio book and invite you to contribute by calling 281-800-5655 or scanning the QR code below to record your favorite Jeremy memory so his family can listen back in the days, months, and years ahead. Stories will be collected until November 21, 2026.
For many bright moons
I've sailed this old wooden ship
through oceans of vows.
I now reach the other shore...
and endless cherry blossoms.
— Jisei poem by Jeremy Herschaft
(“Heart Mountain, Ocean of Vows”)
