Our community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Ronell Johnson, a beloved musician, friend, colleague, and family member whose life and artistry touched so many.

For nearly 30 years, Ronell was part of the Preservation Hall family, performing multiple times a week at Preservation Hall in New Orleans and traveling the world with the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Night after night, city after city, Ronell carried the spirit of New Orleans with him, sharing the music with audiences near and far.

Ronell had that rare and beautiful gift great musicians carry: he could lift a room the moment he began to play. He brought smiles to people’s faces and joy into their hearts. His musicianship was deep, soulful, generous, and full of life. He expressed love through his music, through his craft, and through the way he showed up for the people around him.

We all know that Ronell was a deeply giving person, someone who so often put others ahead of himself. He gave freely through his music, his presence, his spirit, and his heart. Now it is our time to give back to someone who gave all of us such a great gift: joy, music, and love.

At this very difficult time, Ronell’s family is carrying the emotional weight of his passing while also facing the financial burden of funeral expenses and medical care. As a community, we have both an opportunity and a responsibility to surround them with love, support, and relief.

We are raising funds to help cover Ronell’s funeral arrangements and outstanding medical expenses, and to give his family some measure of peace as they navigate the days ahead. No family should have to carry these burdens alone, especially while grieving someone so deeply loved.

At this time, funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. When arrangements have been made, we will share that information with our community.

Any contribution, large or small, will make a meaningful difference. Sharing this fundraiser is also a powerful way to help.

Ronell gave so much beauty to the world through his music, his spirit, and his presence. He gave us joy. He gave us love. He gave us the sound of a life devoted to music. Now it is our turn to give something back to him and to the family he leaves behind.

With gratitude, love, and deep respect,

The Preservation Hall Community / Friends of Ronell Johnson