Taco Sisters Owner Jon Jenkins Remembered As Community Mourns A Beloved Acadiana Leader
The Acadiana community is grieving the loss of Jon Jenkins, the beloved owner of Taco Sisters and a well-known supporter of countless local causes and organizations.
Taco Sisters shared the heartbreaking news Friday (June 5), announcing Jenkins' passing in a statement that described him as far more than a business owner.
"It is with heavy hearts that we come to you today sharing the passing of our beloved owner, Jon Jenkins," the restaurant wrote. "Jon was more than a business partner. He was a friend, a mentor, and a cherished part of the Taco Sisters family."
The restaurant also announced it would close Friday evening and Saturday (June 6) to allow employees and family members time to grieve and be together during the difficult time.
A Legacy That Extended Beyond The Restaurant
While many residents knew Jenkins through Taco Sisters, those closest to him say his influence reached far beyond the walls of the popular Lafayette restaurant.
Former Taco Sisters owner Katy Richard reflected on the role Jenkins played in the company's history, describing him as a trusted mentor and supporter who helped guide the business into its next chapter.
According to Richard, when she and her partners decided to sell Taco Sisters, Jenkins stepped forward to purchase the business, ensuring its future remained in caring hands.
She credited him with providing "kind and gentle guidance" while preserving the culture and family atmosphere that customers had come to love.
Community Leaders Remember A Generous Friend
One of the recurring themes emerging from tributes across social media is Jenkins' dedication to helping others.
Foodies of Lafayette described him as someone who quietly worked behind the scenes to strengthen Acadiana through donations, sponsorships, volunteer efforts, and support for local organizations.
The post noted that Jenkins understood a business could be a vehicle for serving the community, not just customers. Whether helping schools, nonprofits, fundraisers, or neighbors in need, many say he consistently answered the call.
The organization called him "one of the good ones," a phrase echoed repeatedly throughout hundreds of comments from friends, customers, and fellow business owners.
Outpouring Of Support Across Acadiana
Since the announcement, social media has been flooded with messages of sympathy and remembrance.
Customers described Taco Sisters as one of their favorite local restaurants, while former coworkers remembered Jenkins as a genuinely kind person with a great sense of humor.
Several comments referenced his years working in Lafayette's restaurant industry before taking ownership of Taco Sisters. Others spoke about his generosity, mentorship, and willingness to help anyone who needed it.
The Lafayette Farmers and Artisans Market, local business owners, nonprofit supporters, and longtime customers all shared condolences for Jenkins' family and the Taco Sisters team.
A Lasting Impact On Acadiana
As Acadiana processes the loss, many are pointing to the legacy Jenkins leaves behind.
What's clear from the overwhelming response is that Jenkins made a lasting impression on the people around him.
The meals at Taco Sisters are enough for the community to appreciate the business the Jenkins led, but those who knew him best say his greatest contribution was the way he invested in people.
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Gallery Credit: Joni Sweet