Edward Harold Kornbacher, beloved brother, father, grandfather, uncle, neighbor and friend, passed away on April 28, 2025, at the age of 79.
Edward was born on August 7, 1945 to Jacob and Ida Kornbacher in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After graduating from McKinley Senior High School, he went on to study Art Education and received his bachelor’s degree from Southern University. He married Muriel Denise Jones and they had two children together.
He was a true Renaissance man, spending time as a community organizer, teacher, pipe fitter, gasket cutter, screen printer, carpenter, artist and a DJ. He went by many names – Korn, Papa Korn, Paw-Paw, Ed, Special K, Eddie H – and was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who had a need.
To know Edward was to know fun. He loved to laugh as much as he loved to make others laugh and feel uplifted. Approaching the world with compassion and kindness, he touched the lives of all who knew him. Edward had a remarkable ability to make those around him feel seen and valued. His love of art brought beauty and meaning to his days and that love continues to enrich ours.
Edward’s career was marked by dedication and excellence — whether in his professional life, community service, or mentoring others. He was a giant of a man in stature and heart. He is preceded in death by his parents as well as his siblings, Jacob Jr., Louis and Marie.
Edward is survived by his three children: Devika, Jamek and Jarde (who brought him immense pride and joy), a myriad of in-laws, nieces and nephews, and his 11 loving grandchildren who will deeply miss Papa Korn’s/Paw-Paw’s bacon.
Edward’s light, love and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, the family requests donations be made to the Edward Harold Kornbacher Memorial Scholarship fund hosted by the Southern Foundation, to continue his encouragement of young people to stay intellectually curious and pursue
education in all its various forms.
Contribute to the Edward Harold Kornbacher Memorial Scholarship: