Final Salute

James Frankin Kynerd, Jr., “Pawpaw”, “The Eagle”, “Jimmy” age 62 years old, born on January 18, 1963, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, resident of Luling, LA, went to be with our Lord on March 22, 2025. James passed away at his home with his wife and daughter Jenna at his side. Beloved husband of Vanessa Braud Kynerd. They were together for 26 years and married for 17 years. Father of Jenna K Braud (John) Ritzmann and Ashley Kynerd. Grandfather of Andrew and Emma Ritzmann, who affectionately called him Pawpaw. James is survived by his mother Bridget Himel Kynerd, father James Franklin (Sandy) Kynerd, Sr., sister Kim (David) Lawrence, niece Marissa Lawrence and nephew Victor Lawrence, Aunts, Uncles, and numerous cousins. James was preceded in death by his sister Linda Kynerd Boneau. James served in the US Navy Seabees and later worked on the Mississippi River as a deckhand, tankerman, and Crew Boat Captain. His last employer was Crescent River Port Pilots where he worked as a Crew Boat Captain. James graduated in 2007 from Delgado Community College with an associate’s degree in general studies. James had many passions, working in the yard, going to the woods, trains, leathermaking, but his greatest passion was being with children, especially his grandson Andrew. They did everything together and went everywhere together and went on numerous adventures. They were best buddies. Then Emma came along, and he started taking her everywhere with them. It was a special bond that they will always cherish. James was a devoted martial artist, mentor, and friend. A third-degree black belt with over ten years of dedication to Tang Soo Do, he was not only a skilled practitioner but also an inspiring instructor who touched countless lives. Teaching was his true passion, and his students were his greatest joy. With patience, wisdom, and unwavering encouragement, he guided each of them, not just in martial arts, but in life. He instilled confidence, discipline, and respect, always believing in the potential of those he taught. Martial Arts Institute of Louisiana was more than a training space; it was a family, a place of growth, and a testament to his boundless generosity and kindness. To his students, he was more than an instructor, he was a mentor, a role model, and a source of unwavering support. He poured his heart into every lesson, celebrating their victories and helping them rise after every fall. His legacy lives on in the strength, perseverance, and spirit of those he trained. A very special thank you to our daughter Jenna. She was always here to help take care of him in every aspect. The care she helped provide and the constant assistance and support was unwavering. And a special thank you to Holy Family and CrossLife Fellowship for their support with meals, comfort, and the outpouring of love provided to James and our family. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to the visitation at Jacob Schoen & Son, 3827 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Family visitation at 10 a.m. followed by friends at 10:30 a.m. Words of Remembrance will take place in the chapel from noon until 12:45p. Interment to follow at Lake Lawn Park Cemetery.

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