Jonathan Gipson

Jonathan “Barry” Gipson, age 64, passed away on May 10, 2020, in the midst of the Covid-19 lockdown with his wife of over 30 years, Billie, by his side.

Barry was born in Jackson, Mississippi, to James Luther Gipson and Johnnie Ferguson Dunn on September 22, 1955. After receiving a degree in biology at Hinds Junior College in Raymond, MS, he relocated to Baton Rouge where he received his Business Administration degree from LSU. He then started his career in the environmental field at Kemron Environmental Services as a Sampling Specialist. He quickly advanced to manager of the Environmental Air Testing Division. In 1986, Barry and Fred Dowling joined in partnership and established Emission Testing Services, Inc. Barry was a member of “SES” (Source Evaluation Society), Louisiana Air Pollution Control Association, Region IV Air Pollution Control Association, and Louisiana Air & Waste Management Association. He was a member of Fairwood Country Club and enjoyed golfing. Barry also loved listening to talk radio, music, hunting, exercising, reading and crossword puzzles, but his life’s greatest pleasure was socializing and joking around with his family and friends.

Barry is survived by his loving wife, Billie Walling Gipson, his three sons and two grandsons. The oldest son James “Jimmy” Kosienski and wife Lacy, grandsons Roman and Kane; his son Jonathan Gipson II and wife Kristina; and his son Joseph Gipson. He also leaves behind two adopted sisters: Chery Hancock and husband Johnny, and Vicki Favell.

He was preceded in death by James Luther Gipson (Father), Johnnie F. Dunn (Mother), Joyce Gipson (Stepmother), Dr. Gary “Steve” Gipson (Brother), Bill Gipson (Stepbrother) and Blitz Kosienski (Grandson).

Visiting hours will take place at Resthaven Gardens of Memory & Funeral Home on Saturday, July 24, 2021, from 12:30 pm until services at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers and because Barry was a proud father of an Army Aviation Officer, please make donations to VFW Post 3784, 13214 S Choctaw Dr, Baton Rouge LA  70815 or Geaux 7 Blue Star Mothers, PO Box 78152, Baton Rouge, LA  70837 in Barry’s honor.

The immediate family of Jonathan Barry Gipson wishes to extend our sincere thanks to all of our family, friends and coworkers that have shared their love, prayers, and support for us during this unexpected difficult time.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.