2006 Peoples Health Champions

Ruby Minor Jones

At age 67, Ruby Minor Jones drove into New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina to comfort terminally ill hospice patients, staying by their side through the storm.

Allen Toussaint

At age 68, Allen Toussaint launched his first world tour, sharing his legendary New Orleans sound with audiences across the globe.

Lionel C. Ferbos

At age 80, Lionel Ferbos began a steady weekly gig at the Palm Court Jazz Café, continuing to perform well into his 90s as a beloved jazz trumpeter.

Clifford S. Lala

At age 81, Clifford Lala calmly negotiated his own release during a home invasion, convincing an armed fugitive to surrender peacefully.

Lucille McDonnell

At age 65, Lucille McDonnell retired from retail marketing and immediately began volunteering full-time, applying her skills to strengthen local nonprofits.

William E. Rogers

At age 75, William Rogers organized an international volunteer network to help rebuild his Bywater neighborhood after Hurricane Katrina.

Leah Chase

At age 83, Leah Chase began rebuilding Dooky Chase’s Restaurant, restoring a cultural cornerstone of the Treme community after Hurricane Katrina.

Ed Brown

At age 85, Ed Brown returned from evacuation to reopen his Hammond U-Haul Center, helping residents recover and rebuild after Katrina.