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NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) – Edgar “Dooky” Chase Jr., husband of Leah Chase and patriarch of the Dooky Chase restaurant family, has died.

He was 88.

New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu confirmed his death on Twitter.

Dooky Chase restaurant in Treme is world famous, thanks to the hard work of Dooky Chase Jr. and his wife, Leah. It’s known for classic Creole cuisine and African-American art.

“Dookie” Chase Jr. married Leah Chase in 1946, according to the restaurant’s website. He was also known as a popular musician who fronted the Dooky Chase Orchestra that performed throughout the city during the 1940s. Dooky Chase Sr. opened Dooky Chase Restaurant in 1941. It started in 1939 as a sandwich shop and place to buy lottery tickets and eventually blossomed into a renowned Creole eatery.

Leah and Dooky Chase Jr. have been staples in the community for decades.

Funeral arrangements have not been announced.