Statement from Walt Leger III, President and CEO of New Orleans & Company, on the Passing of Dr. Norman C. Francis – 2/18/26
NEW ORLEANS — New Orleans & Company and I join our community in mourning the passing of Dr. Norman C. Francis — a towering leader whose life and legacy are woven into the very fabric of New Orleans. I feel incredibly blessed to have had the opportunity to know him, and to be inspired by him. I strive to emulate his vision, humility and excellence.
Dr. Francis was not simply a witness to our city’s history; he shaped it. His steady hand during some of our city’s most defining and difficult moments reflected the resilience, dignity, and faith that define New Orleans at its best.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, the Xavier University community, and all who were blessed to know him. New Orleans is better — and forever changed — because of Dr. Norman C. Francis.