Bob French last performed with his group The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band in the summer of 2011. He then passed on the leadership of his band to his 41-year-old nephew and fellow-drummer Gerald French, and moved into an assisted-living facility, afflicted with dementia and suffering from diabetes-related complications.

Bob grew up immersed in the traditional sounds of New Orleans. His father was banjo player Albert "Papa" French, who took over the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band in the 1950s after the death of Oscar "Papa" Celestin, who founded the group in 1910.

In his younger days, Bob rejected jazz music in favor of rhythm and blues. He played with Dave Bartholomew, Fats Domino and and Harry Connick, Jr. among others.

One day, "Papa" French recruited his son to fill in for the Original Tuxedo's ailing drummer. Bob French was so mortified by his sloppy performance that he committed himself to a proper study of traditional New Orleans jazz.

When Papa French died in 1977, his son Bob took over the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, a position he would hold for 34 years.

Over the years, Bob mentored countless young musicians who either joined or sat in with his band. As a bandleader, he took his father's lessons to heart: Charge a higher fee than competitors. Dress sharp. And most important, be on time.

Bob's drumming technique was extremely efficient; his arms hardly moved as his wrists and hands did all the work. From behind his drums, Bob kept a watchful eye. He did not tolerate mistakes by his musicians. He did not permit fans to videotape his shows, but had no problem with them talking or dancing.

A visitation/celebration of Bob's life took place Saturday in the chapel at D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home in New Orleans. In accordance with his wishes, there was no formal funeral service, and no official memorial second-line jazz funeral.