Antoinette K-Doe, one of the most beloved figures in New Orleans and widow of legendary R&B singer Ernie K-Doe, passed early on Mardi Gras morning (February 24, 2009) at the age of 66.
After Ernie K-Doe's passing in 2001, Antoinette took over the Mother-In-Law Lounge, a restaurant and nightclub originally opened by her husband in 1994 and named after his 1971 hit song, "Mother-in-Law."
She kept the club open partly as a shrine to Ernie, as well as to continue his vision of providing a place for living legends to share their music with loving audiences. She also kept (and meticulously maintained) a life-size mannequin of her late husband, which sat in a corner on a throne in the club and made frequent public appearances elsewhere.
In 2005, after Hurricane Katrina, the Mother-In-Law Lounge was completely underwater, and Antoinette was rescued after being stranded in the club for a week. She was a vigorous supporter of rebuilding New Orleans after the storm and became a spokesperson for the Hands On Network, a Katrina relief organization.
Although we are deeply saddened by Miss Antoinette's passing, we take comfort in her reunion with her late husband.
Memorial arrangements are as follows:
Friday, Feb. 27
2:00-7:00 p.m.
Viewing of the body at the Mother-In-Law Lounge
Saturday, Feb. 28
9:00-11:00 a.m.
Viewing of the body at St. James Methodist Church (1925 Ursulines Ave)
11:00 a.m.
Funeral service followed by a second line to St. Louis #2 cemetery
2:30-6:30 p.m.
Repast at Mid-City Lanes Rock 'N' Bowl
