Larry Anthony Bourgeois

Larry Anthony Bourgeois, a man of profound kindness and quiet strength, passed away three days after his 74th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of love, family, and cherished memories. Born on January 20th, 1951, and raised in Lutcher, Louisiana, Larry was one of eight siblings in a close-knit family. He graduated from Lutcher High School, where his athleticism and team spirit shone brightly.

Larry’s life was defined by hard work and dedication. For much of his career, he worked as a skilled machinist, applying his talent and patience to his craft, and through his hard work and dedication advanced to the position of Plant Foreman. Later, he embraced a new chapter as the co-owner of Covington Nursery alongside his brother Wayne, where he transitioned from the stresses of industrial work to working in nature, finding fulfillment in cultivating both plants and friendships with landscapers, growers, and fellow nursery owners.

Larry was a devoted father to his two daughters, Shelley Bourgeois (Mike Chapa) and Monica Bourgeois (Neil Gernon), and a proud grandfather to Andrew Bourgeois and great-granddaughter Marcy. His life partner of 18 years, Melody Lalonde, was his steadfast companion. Together, they created a warm and joyful home in Pearl River, Louisiana, surrounded by chickens, goats, and so many dogs. He shared a close bond with Melody’s children—Jay, Crystal and Randy—and familial love with her grandchildren Ava, Bailey, Sayler, Brooklyn, Memphis and Presley, who cherished him as their Poppi.

Larry was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Bernice Hebert Bourgeois and Jessie Bourgeois, as well as his brother Dale. He is survived by his siblings, brothers Jess, Wayne (Melinda), Gary (Tammy), Kevin (Mary), and Blair and sisters Sonja Bourgeois Gros and Gail Bourgeois Peet. His large family was a source of joy and strength throughout his life.

After retiring from the nursery, Larry joined Monica and Neil at Wild Bush Farm and Vineyard, where his ingenuity and passion for tinkering brought life to countless projects. An engineer at heart, Larry could build, fix, and improve just about anything. His patience and skill inspired those around him, as did his gentle and generous nature.

Larry loved fishing, a passion he shared with his brothers at their camp, and he found peace in the simple pleasures of life. His final birthday was celebrated with a surprise party—the first of his life—on the Saturday before his passing, surrounded by loved ones. The day he passed, snow blanketed Southeast Louisiana in a rare and beautiful display, and he delighted playing in it and witnessing photos and videos of his family doing the same.

Larry’s life was a testament to the power of love, patience, and dedication. He was a man who gave freely of his heart and talents, leaving behind a family and community deeply enriched by his presence. His legacy lives on in the memories of those who loved him and in the countless lives he touched.

Rest in peace, Larry Bourgeois. You will be forever missed and always remembered.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Gathering at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70124, to celebrate Larry’s life on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 12:00 PM until 3:00 PM. To view and sign the family online guestbook, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com