Hampden "Chip" Joseph Zeringue Jr.

Chip was the beloved husband of Merrill Zeringue, with whom he shared nearly 50 years of marriage. He was a devoted father to Michelle Spielman (Stewart) and Michael Zeringue (Maria), and a cherished grandfather to Emmie Spielman, who was a great source of joy in his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jeanne and Hampden Zeringue Sr. He is also survived by his siblings, Sylvia Lambert, Donnie Zeringue, and Patsy Zeringue, along with numerous extended family members and dear friends.

Chip proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army, where he served honorably as a medic specialist both stateside and overseas.

Following his military service, Chip embarked on a distinguished career as an agricultural research chemist with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Southern Regional Research Center in New Orleans. Over the course of his career, he contributed meaningfully to scientific advancement and held multiple patents and publications resulting from his research, leaving a professional legacy marked by curiosity, diligence, and innovation.

Outside of his professional life, Chip’s favorite place to be was his backyard garden, where he lovingly tended vegetables, flowers, and tropical plants. Gardening was more than a hobby—it was a reflection of his patience, knowledge, and reverence for creation.

Chip also possessed a deep wanderlust and believed in exposing his children to the wider world, fostering curiosity and appreciation for different cultures from an early age. Above all else, he devoted his life to his family, maintaining a steady, steadfast, and reassuring presence throughout their lives.

An avid photographer and videographer, Chip documented family life with care and intention. Through his photographs and home videos, he leaves behind a rich visual legacy—countless moments preserved in time, telling the story of a life deeply lived and passionately observed.

A man of quiet faith and enduring love, Chip lived his life guided by service, family, and gratitude for God’s creation.

On Wednesday, April 15, 2026 friends and relatives are invited to attend a 10:30 a.m. visitation and a 11:30 a.m. mass of Christian Burial, at St. Charles Borromeo Church, 13396 River Road in Destrehan. Internment will follow the mass at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Cemetery. Mass and funeral will be celebrated by Father Harry Bugler.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Charles Borromeo Church & School or Louisiana Public Broadcasting.