Jeremy Lee St. John

Jeremy Lee St. John, 40, of New Orleans, died Saturday, July 10, 2021 after a courageous six month battle with cancer. His family is heartbroken. 

 

Jeremy was born on December 27, 1980 to Becky Hall and Scott St. John, in Berlin, Vermont. Growing up he enjoyed theater and was in many plays, which suited him well for his next role as a Shriner, where he performed as Joey the Clown in countless parades to raise money for the sick children of Shriners Hospital. 



In 2011, Jeremy was blessed with a daughter, Sophie Olivia, and was a doting and dedicated father. He would do anything to make her laugh and smile, and she never failed to do the same for him. They have countless selfies and silly videos singing and dancing together to prove it. 

 

In what would more appropriately appear as a scene from a romantic comedy than real life, Jeremy met his wife and true love Rachael Kostelec at West Elm when he offered to deliver her couch in exchange for a dinner date.  It very quickly became apparent to all that Rachael and Jeremy were the perfect match.  Always going above and beyond to show his adoration to Rachael, Jeremy stood in the Mardi Gras crowd holding a sign proposing marriage as Rachael’s float drove by. Because he was always great at working a crowd, Jeremy chased the float down the entire parade route, lifting up his sign each time for another roar from the spectators. Jeremy and Rachael had a fabulous time participating in local philanthropies, going to festivals, taking trips, and spending time with their wide network of friends throughout New Orleans and beyond. Jeremy and Rachael were often accompanied by their two bulldogs, Pennelope and Lady Popplesworth (Poppy). 



Jeremy was a loyal employee of Guarantee Restoration for 9 years, where he had recently been promoted to acting Branch Manager of the Gulfport Office. Even in his final days, Jeremy went out of his way to encourage and empower his coworkers and the employees he managed (Go Purple Team!). 

Jeremy was a selfless and thoughtful friend and relative. He was a fantastic chef and baker, and enjoyed sharing his love of cooking, and his recipes, with those closest to him. 



Jeremy always made those around him feel welcome, appreciated, and comfortable. He had an immense passion for life and was always a source of positivity. He lived by the motto, “Go Big or Go Home”, and was always All In, in whatever he was doing. Jeremy fought like hell and maintained his positive attitude until his last breath, waking up to comfort his loved ones, and surprising them with hugs through his last day. 

 

Jeremy was the most loving father and husband.  His family and friends will miss him more than words can say.  In addition to his parents, Jeremy is survived by his wife Rachael Kostelec St. John of New Orleans, daughter Sophie St. John, brother Jeff St. John (Erica Fowler) of Cabot, Vermont, in-laws Michael and Maura Kostelec of Harrisburg, PA, brother in law Matthew Kostelec (Wendy) of Harrisburg, PA, and sister in law Megan Kostelec Goddard of NYC, NY, 7 nieces and nephews; Yaki, Marley, Alex, and Zack Kostelec, Gemma Goddard, and Ethan and Deakin Welcome, as well as his  Aunt Laurie of Northfield, VT, grandmother in law Shirley Dubin of Mishawaka, IN, Ian Welcome, and many other loving friends, family, and co-workers.



To the many people who have generously asked how they can help, contributions to Jeremy’s extensive medical bills may be made in his memory to his wife, Rachael Kostelec via venmo @Rachael-Kostelec. A Go Big or Go Home celebration of life will be held at a later date.