Lawrence "Johnny" John Babin Jr., age 72, of Gonzales, Louisiana, passed away on Friday, February 23, 2024. Johnny was born in Gonzales, Louisiana. He was a dedicated firefighter who spent his life serving others, driving fire trucks across the country. After 30 years of selfless service, he retired as District Chief for the Baton Rouge Fire Department. In addition to his full-time commitment, Johnny also worked part-time with Southland Fire and Safety, St. George Fire Department, and Ferrara Fire Apparatus. Johnny was a pillar of his community, known for his unwavering faith as a faithful parishioner at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church and his involvement with the Knights of Columbus #6389. He was not only passionate about his work but also enjoyed indulging in his hobbies, such as being an avid NASCAR fan, and enjoyed camping and swamp pop music. Johnny's kindness extended beyond his professional and personal life; he was always ready to lend a helping hand, ensuring everyone's cars were washed and yards were cut. His kind heart and welcoming demeanor meant that he never met a stranger. Johnny is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Vanessa Babin; his children, Juliet (Roger) Babin Raffray, Diana (Dusty) Babin Coulon, and Brant Babin; sister, Catherine Babin James; and grandchildren, Brendon (Brooke) Raffray, Luke Raffray, Lily Raffray, Kaleb Coulon, and Kora Coulon. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Louise Babin; brother, Buren Babin; sister-in-law, Linda Babin; brother-in-law, Hubert (Q-Ball) James; and nephew, Troy James. Pallbearers honored to serve are Roger Raffray, Dusty Coulon, Brendon Raffray, Luke Raffray, Kenny Templet, Tracy James, Kevin Crawford, and Tommy Savoy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, the Steve Gleeson Foundation, and the ALS Foundation. The family extends special thanks to Baton Rouge Hospice and Johnny's caregivers, Michaelia Moses, Carla Ennis, Sataylor Buggage, LaQuinta Tilley, and Betty Johnson from ALS In Home Care. Also, a heartfelt thank you to Betsy Melancon and Missy Marchand for their loving care. A visitation for Johnny will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, at 9:00 AM at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 44450 LA Highway 429, St. Amant, Louisiana 70774. A Mass of Christian Burial will occur on the same day at 11:00 AM, also at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, followed by a committal service at Holy Rosary Catholic Church Mausoleum.
