George Albert Barry, Jr.

George Albert Barry, Jr. of Lacombe passed peacefully in his sleep, with family members in attendance, on June the 5th, 2023, aged 95 years and 6 months. He was predeceased by his parents, George Albert Barry, Sr. of Louisiana and Evye Buckles Barry of Mississippi, and by his loving wife of 64 years, the former Virginia May Leitner of Florida. He was also predeceased by his brothers, Charles and James, his oldest son, Neal Leitner Barry, and his granddaughter, Michelle Barry. George is survived by his children, Eric, Brent, and LaGloria, his son-in-law, David, his daughters-in-law, Irene and Debra, and his grandchildren, Mike, Gena, Erica, Sydney, and Daniel.

George was born in New Orleans in 1927 and attended Alcee Fortier High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, was trained as a Chemical Warfare specialist, served in the Philippines, and was awarded the World War Two Victory Medal. After his military service, he attended Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge where he earned a Bachelor Degree. He then worked for the U.S. Government as a technical electronics contractor in Europe and Africa. Returning home, George began a long career in the petroleum exploration industry, serving in managerial positions and again traveling overseas on numerous occasions, but ultimately settling down and raising a family in Lacombe, Louisiana, retiring in the 1980s.

George was an interesting, intelligent, educated, and articulate man. He was also funny and insightful, often seeing the truth in things others missed. He was an avid Ham radio operator, receiving awards for public service during natural disasters, such as hurricanes. He was well-read, loved history, the outdoors, and the natural sciences, especially zoology, botany, and geology. In retirement, George routinely attended and supported the yearly LSU Geology Camp in Colorado as a volunteer, as well as supporting many conservation and educational outdoor projects in south Louisiana and Mississippi.

While we are all saddened by George’s passing, and will greatly miss this wonderful man, we take solace in his long, fruitful, and well-lived life.

To view and sign the online guestbook, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.