Edward Charles Gits, Jr., affectionately known as Ed, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, at the age of 67. He was born on February 17, 1959, and grew up in LaGrange, Illinois.

Ed attended Culver Military Academy in Culver, Indiana, before attending Southern Methodist University and ultimately graduating from Louisiana State University with a degree in history. Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Pamela Cooke Gits, who was his partner and best friend; his stepson, Jason Upton (Kacey); his stepdaughter, Stephanie Upton Hostetler (Jonny); and his grandchildren, Logan Upton, Colton Hostetler, Maverick Hostetler, and Bradley Hostetler.

He is also survived by his sisters, Victoria Gits, Susan Gits, and Betsy Gits; and his sisters-in-law and their spouses, Alicia Cooke Winterfeld, Laurie Johnson (Pat), and Jennifer Cooke Talbot (Bobby); his son in law Rob Weaver and many loving extended family members and lifelong friends.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Gits and Lois Rea Gits; his father-in-law, James Cooke; his brother-in-law, William Winterfeld; and his dearly loved stepdaughter, Emily Upton Weaver.

Ed leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, generosity and friendship. He will be remembered for his enormous heart, his wonderful sense of humor and the joy he found in the people and animals he loved.

A Funeral Mass will be held in the chapel of Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. in New Orleans, Louisiana, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 11:00AM. The interment will follow at Lake Lawn Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Louisiana SPCA in Ed’s memory.

To read the full obituary, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.