Eugene Juan Poirrier

Eugene Juan "Gene" Poirrier, age 73, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, at home with his family at his side, in his hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. Born on June 12, 1952, Gene spent his life deeply rooted in the community he loved.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Gene dedicated 35 years of his life to the New Orleans Fire Department, where he served with unwavering fidelity and courage. His career spanned many roles: Firefighter, Operator, Captain, and Medical Officer. All were characterized by countless acts of bravery and selflessness, most notably during Hurricane Katrina when he risked his own safety to save lives amidst one of the city's darkest times. His legacy as a firefighter is one of heroism and service, leaving an indelible mark on those who worked alongside him and the many lives he touched.

Gene's life was centered around family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Mary Beth Babin, his sons, Kevin (Niki) and Doug (Laura Lee), his cherished grandchildren, Tyger, Simon, and Allison, and his beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Raymond and Eugenie Poirrier, as well as his brothers, Raymond Jr. and Sidney.

Throughout his life, Gene was a man of many passions. He found joy in woodworking, fishing, and restoring antique cars. Most notably was his love of the Christmas season which included collecting and building toys for donation as well as dressing up as Santa for his family, his friends’ families, and as a volunteer at Children’s Hospital.

A familiar face at the Empty Nest Cafe, Gene shared countless memories with friends and family there. It was a place where coffee flowed, laughter echoed, and stories were exchanged—a testament to the relationships he nurtured throughout his life.

Gene's passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him. His dedication to serving others, both through his career and personal life, stands as a lasting inspiration. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn this loss.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. New Orleans, LA. Visitation will be held from 11 AM – 1 PM with a memorial service to begin at 1 PM.