Antoine “Fats” Domino Jr., arguably the greatest ambassador of New Orleans music, one of the founders of rhythm and blues, as well as rock ’n’ roll, died peacefully while in hospice care at his home in Harvey, Louisiana on October 24. He was 89. Domino, whose last performance was in 2006, had been in failing health for several years. Upon delayed word of his passing, tributes from New Orleanians and people from around the world poured in rapidly.

Along with Dave Bartholomew, Domino helped ...