Omer Villere Claiborne

Omer Villere Claiborne Jr. passed away peacefully in his home on September 12th at the age of 97.
Omer was born in Brussels, Belgium, in 1926. His family, which included his brother, Louis, and his sister, Liz, moved to New Orleans at the onset of World War II. They later moved to New Jersey where he went to high school. Omer served in the Army Air Corps and the Merchant Marines. He is an alumnus of Tulane University. During his time in New Orleans, he owned and operated the famous Café Lafitte for a short stint.
Omer lived in Mexico City from 1952 to 1981 where he raised his family. There he was an architect, interior designer, furniture designer, and avid art collector. He opened Claiborne Gallery in Santa Fe in 1978 with his wife, Jeanette, better known as Bunny. He continued to work in Mexico City for the next 3 years until the Santa Fe gallery became self-sustaining. Claiborne Gallery operated on Canyon Road until his passing.
Omer led an exceptional life. Everyone was captivated by the wonderful stories he told of his life, and his abundant knowledge of world history. He will be sorely missed by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many dear friends.