Donald Gros

Donald Joseph Gros, 82, a resident of Baton Rouge, LA, passed away Friday, May 27, 2022. Don was born in Thibodaux, grew up in Harvey, married in New Orleans and raised his family in Baton Rouge.

Don is survived by his four children: Ward (Anita), John (Becky), Donna Bourgeois (Randy) and Andrew (Alison); his beloved grandchildren Rachel and Emily Ribando-Gros; Jennifer, Joseph, and Jacob Quigley; Paul and Camille Gros; and Drew and Cecile Gros; brother Alton Gros, Jr. (Geraldine), and sister Jenice Gros Champagne.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years Mary Ward Gros, parents Alton E. Sr. and Marie (Anna) Gros, in-laws Lynn and Edna Ward, Aunts Malvina and Bridgette (Lizzie) Gros, and sister Sally Ann Vedros.

Don earned a master’s degree in education from Louisiana State University and bachelor’s degree in music education from Southeastern University as a member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. Don fostered a life-long love for learning by teaching and retiring from Capital High School as a vocational educator. Prior to that Don served as Band Director then Principal at Port Sulphur High School during school desegregation. An advocate for civil rights, Don received an award of distinction in 2012 for his involvement with the African American Heritage Celebration held by the U.S. District Court.

Don’s true calling was to music as he was well known for playing piano in Baton Rouge with several bands including Charisma and Mixed Trixx as well as leading the jazz brunch band at the Argosy Casino and more recently at Jubans Restaurant. Don repaired band instruments at Werlein’s in the 70’s and 80’s and taught piano at Zeagler Music in the 90’s. He entertained crowds every October on accordion with his vast repertoire of German polkas ands waltzes. His life in music blossomed while attending West Jefferson High School when he replaced Frankie Ford in the Syncopaters. Throughout his life, his music could be heard from the barrooms to the church pews. He was Choir Director at St. Louis King of France for several years. One of his greatest achievements was composing a spiritual hymn for St. Thomas More parish’s 50th anniversary celebration.

Don wanted to thank all his family and friends for the love they shared over the years. The family would like to thank the staff at Maison de Fleur Assisted Living, Denham Springs, and to all his doctors and nurses who showed compassion and understanding during his final days.

Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral services on Wednesday, June 1st, 2022, at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, 12424 Brogdon Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 with visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. followed by Catholic Mass at 11:00 a.m. A reception will be held after the service.