Thomas Elbert Herrington

Thomas Elbert “Thom” Herrington, age 69, passed away on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, the 15th anniversary of “Thom Herrington Day.” Thom was born in Florida to the late Elbert and Mary Herrington, and has been a resident of New Orleans for the past 40 years. He was Chief Preparator at the New Orleans Museum of Art for 26 years until his retirement 15 years ago, at which time “Thom Herrington Day” was dedicated to him on March 28th to honor his work. Thom created beautiful and unique hand-crafted furniture as a seasoned woodworker, and shared his talents with the world by hosting a booth at Jazz Fest every year for 10 years. Thom loved history, which drove him to major in it in college and fueled his passion for his work with NOMA; he was always extremely proud to say he worked at the New Orleans Museum of Art. In exploring his love for history, he developed an eye for antiques and became a prolific collector, with a keen interest in mission furniture. Thom also had an ear for music, and loved playing the guitar. Most of all, Thom cherished his family and his beloved wife of over 21 years, Mary Darken Herrington. Mary and Thom loved to take trips together all across the country, where they would travel and seek out more additions to add to their antique collections. Thom also leaves behind his loving step-daughters, Karen Legrand (Pierre) and Margaret Murray, his adoring step-grandchildren, Anna, Marlo, and Pierre Legrand, as well as many other loving relatives and friends. Thom will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services for Thom will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Thom’s honor to the Dooky Chase Foundation at http://www.dookychasefoundation.org/donate. Leah Chase is one of Thom’s dearest friends, and he believed strongly in the foundation’s cause.

Please consider sharing your fondest memories of Thom with his family in the online guest book at www.neptunesociety.com/location/new-orleans-cremation.

Arrangements entrusted to Neptune Society of New Orleans, 3801 Williams Blvd., Kenner, LA 70065. 504-464-3095.