New Orleans cousins celebrate 56 years with Krewe of Iris

Jackie and Lynn Worley are among the longest consecutive riding members in the Krewe of Iris and possibly the city of New Orleans.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Two New Orleans cousins, Jackie and Lynn Worley, are celebrating 56 years of riding with the Krewe of Iris, making them one of the longest consecutive riding members in the krewe and possibly the entire city. The 79 and 86-year-old cousins joined the krewe in 1970 when the dues were just $200 and they had to pay for their beads by the dozen each month. Despite the rising costs over the decades and some health challenges in recent years, the duo remains dedicated to riding in the parade every year.

Why it matters

The Krewe of Iris is one of the oldest and most prestigious Mardi Gras krewes in New Orleans, and Jackie and Lynn's 56-year run as members highlights the enduring traditions and community spirit of the city's Carnival celebrations. Their story also demonstrates the passion and commitment of longtime Mardi Gras participants, even in the face of increasing costs and physical challenges.

The details

Jackie and Lynn joined the Krewe of Iris in 1970 when they were young and struggling to afford the $200 dues and monthly bead costs. But they were determined to be part of the krewe and would pay a little each month to build up the funds. In their early years, the rules were looser, the crowds were tighter, and the costumes were shorter. Over the decades, they've seen the parade and festivities evolve, but their love for riding has never wavered. In 2010, Jackie even became the Krewe of Iris Queen. Last year, Lynn had a health scare that had Jackie worried she might not ride again, but this year Lynn is back on the float with a broken arm, determined to keep their 56-year tradition alive.

  • Jackie and Lynn joined the Krewe of Iris in 1970.
  • In 2010, Jackie was the Krewe of Iris Queen.
  • In 2020, the cousins did not ride due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • In 2022, Lynn had a health scare that had Jackie worried she might not ride again.
  • In 2023, Lynn is riding with a broken arm.

The players

Jackie Worley

A 79-year-old member of the Krewe of Iris who has been riding in the parade for 56 consecutive years, including serving as the Krewe of Iris Queen in 2010.

Lynn Worley

An 86-year-old member of the Krewe of Iris who has been riding in the parade for 56 consecutive years alongside her cousin Jackie.

Krewe of Iris

One of the oldest and most prestigious Mardi Gras krewes in New Orleans, known for its annual parade and ball.

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What they’re saying

“We used to know almost all the members. Oh, yes. Now we only know a handful.”

— Jackie Worley (wdsu.com)

“What you spend now is crazy. I think of all the real estate I could own had I that money invested the money in something like that.”

— Lynn Worley (wdsu.com)

“I only think about being healthy enough to be able to get on that float and ride. That's. I don't ever think about not riding because I'm just even just thinking about that would be devastating to me, because I know there will come a time, I guess, when I can't get up on the float. So I'm not looking forward to that at all.”

— Lynn Worley (wdsu.com)

The takeaway

Jackie and Lynn's 56-year tradition of riding with the Krewe of Iris demonstrates the enduring passion and commitment of longtime Mardi Gras participants in New Orleans, even as the costs and physical challenges have increased over the decades. Their story highlights the rich history and community spirit that make the city's Carnival celebrations so special.