Albert J. Carey Jr.

life story

Madam Albertine Made into Art

Delighted to recieve a generous gift from a very talented artist friend inspired by Albert's alterego Madam Albertine

Unapologetically Fabulous to the End

Albert J. Carey Jr., age 86, who was fondly referred to as Boonie by his sister Patty, was a distinguished architect, cultural leader, and legendary figure in New Orleans’ LGBTQ+ and artistic communities, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, with his devoted sister, Patty Carey by his side.

Albert was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on August 9, 1939, to Albert J. Carey Sr. and Mary Compagno Carey. Raised in the city he loved all his life, Albert attended De La Salle High School before continuing his education at Tulane University, where he pursued Architecture and began shaping the creative vision that would define his professional career.

Growing up in an era that did not readily welcome difference, Albert lived openly and unapologetically as himself, a quiet act of courage that would later inspire countless others. Early in his career, he lived and worked in New York City, where he immersed himself in architecture, culture, and the arts, forming lifelong friendships and indulging a deep passion for Broadway theater. Alongside his cherished friend Jimmy Tarleton, Albert attended nearly every Broadway production that would allow them through the doors, creating memories he would later recount with signature flair.

Albert eventually returned to New Orleans, where his architectural legacy became profound and enduring. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, he dedicated his later professional years to the reconstruction and renovation of the devastated schools of St. Bernard Parish. Refusing to merely rebuild what was lost, Albert envisioned and delivered forward-looking, state-of-the-art educational facilities. The schools he helped create became, and remain today, among the most advanced in Louisiana, standing as a testament to his belief that recovery should always include progress.

Albert was preceded in death by the love of his life, Jerry Hocke, a founder of the Krewe of Armeinius. Through that love, Albert found not only companionship but a lifelong calling. His devotion to the Krewe spanned 57 years, during which he served many times as Captain, Queen, and King. Following Hurricane Katrina, Albert was instrumental in rescuing, rebuilding, and guiding the Krewe into a new era of stability and prominence. His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment helped shape the organization into the respected cultural institution it is today.

In retirement, Albert followed in the footsteps of his revered literary muse, Tennessee Williams, relocating with his sister Patty to Provincetown, Massachusetts. There he blessed countless friends and neighbors with his unwavering wit and knowledge. In 2025, Albert and Patty moved together to Diamondhead, Mississippi, accompanied by their beloved family of five chihuahuas, Zoe Noel, Tiffy, Toby, Tinkerbell, and Ladybug, as well as Albert’s trusted companion, Oscar.

To those who knew him, Albert was one of the greatest storytellers they would ever encounter. His recollections were rich, vivid, and often fabulously embellished, delivered with theatrical timing and unmistakable charm. He was a brilliant historian of New Orleans, a devoted Broadway enthusiast, a passionate lover of fashion design, classic films from the Golden Age of cinema, and perhaps the world’s greatest admirer of Tennessee Williams. A generous philanthropist, Albert quietly supported countless individuals and organizations in pursuit of their dreams.

Above all, Albert treasured his sister and chosen family of dear friends. He shared a deep and enduring bond with his sister Patty, finding particular joy in their time spent together, whether traveling, reminiscing, or simply enjoying one another’s company at the casino with her Mr. Boonie. Though the knowledge he carried with him was immense, Albert made it his life’s work to share it freely, mentoring generations with humor, honesty, sometimes fibs, and always love.

Albert J. Carey Jr. is survived by his beloved sister, Patty Carey, and by an extended family of friends, mentees, and community members whose lives are forever enriched by his presence.

A celebration of Albert’s life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage acts of mentorship, creativity, generosity, or donate to a charity of choice in Albert’s memory, and we invite support of his beloved Krewe of Armeinius, so you and others may experience what he loved so deeply.

Albert J. Carey Jr. lived an extraordinary life. His legacy as a builder, a mentor, a storyteller, and a cultural icon will endure for generations.

memorial service

Albert's Celebration of Life

February 24, 2026

Frederick J Sigur Civic Center 8245 W Judge Perez Dr, Chalmette, LA 70043, USA

This is moment we don't come to mourn but celebrate who Albert was and the legacy he left.