Rattanasak "Jimmy" Chotikarnkul

A Life of Passion, Generosity, and Love

With profound sadness and loving remembrance, we announce the passing of Rattanasak Chotikarnkul, affectionately known to so many as "Jimmy Cho," who entered eternal rest on October 19, 2026, at the age of 50. Born in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand, Jimmy's journey began in northeastern region of Thailand, where he grew up helping his parents operate their family's noodle and coffee shop. It was there that the seeds of his passion for food, hospitality, and bringing people together were first planted, though he could have not known how deeply those early experiences would shape his future.

Before making the United States his home, Jimmy briefly worked for Malaysia Airlines. With courage, determination, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities, he eventually made his way to New Orleans, where he enrolled at Delgado Community College to pursue a career as a surgical technologist. However, life had a different path in store for him. While attending college, Jimmy worked at several restaurants throughout the New Orleans area, including Cafe Zen and Little Tokyo. What began as a way to support himself soon blossomed into something far more meaningful. He discovered a passion for the culinary arts, a natural gift for hospitality, and a love for creating experiences that brought joy to others.

In 2009, Jimmy took a leap of faith and opened Banana Blossom in a modest strip mall beside Winn-Dixie on Belle Chasse Highway. Through hard work, creativity, and an unwavering belief in his vision, he transformed a small restaurant into something extraordinary. Banana Blossom became more than just a place to enjoy a meal; it became a gathering place where friendships were formed, celebrations were shared, and guests were welcomed with genuine warmth. As the restaurant flourished, Jimmy moved Banana Blossom to a larger location on Ninth Street in downtown Gretna in 2018, more than doubling its original size and continuing to build upon the legacy he had begun.

Jimmy was never content to stop learning, exploring, or creating. His love for travel took him to new places, where he found inspiration in different cultures, flavors, and traditions. He brought pieces of those journeys home, filling Banana Blossom with unique treasures, fresh ideas, and unforgettable culinary experiences. He also embraced opportunities to collaborate with fellow chefs, always eager to exchange ideas, share his creativity, and celebrate his passion for food.

Yet, for all that Jimmy accomplished, his greatest legacy was never simply the restaurant he built, but the countless lives he touched along the way. Jimmy had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and loved. His generosity extended beyond the kitchen, his kindness reached far beyond his circle of friends, and his friendships often grew into bonds as meaningful as family. He understood that life’s greatest treasures were not measured by success or possessions, but by the memories we create, the love we share, and the people we hold close to our hearts.

To know Jimmy was to know someone who embraced life with passion, creativity, and an open heart. He built a beautiful life far from where his journey began, yet never lost the warmth, hospitality, and spirit that made him who he was.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Prakob Chotikarnkul and Wanlapa Chotikarnkul; his brother, Somsak Chotikarnkul; and his nephew, Attiwitt Chotikarnkul. He is survived by his brother, Warisak Chotikarnkul, and his nephew, Narisuan Chotikarnkul, both of Sakon Nakhon, Thailand.

Beyond his immediate family, Jimmy leaves behind a treasured circle of friends who became his chosen family. Among those especially dear to him were his head chef, Em-on Kitpowsong (Voravijit), and chef Marchie Tabacon (Mark). Through years of shared experiences, laughter, challenges, and unwavering friendship, they built bonds that went far beyond the walls of Banana Blossom. Their love, loyalty, and countless cherished memories will forever remain an enduring part of his legacy.

Jimmy’s passing leaves an emptiness that words cannot fully express. His absence will be deeply felt in the restaurant he poured his heart and soul into, throughout the Gretna community he proudly called home, and, most of all, in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know and love him.

Though his journey ended far too soon, the beauty of his life lives on in every friendship he nurtured, every act of kindness he extended, every meal that brought people together, and every memory that continues to bring a smile. Jimmy may no longer be with us, but the love he gave, the lives he touched, and the legacy he created will never be forgotten. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn him, and may his spirit continue to inspire the kindness, generosity, and love he so freely shared.

Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Jimmy are warmly invited to gather in remembrance and celebration of his life on Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Expressway, Harvey, Louisiana 70058.