Joseph Gerald Bower

Joseph Gerald Bower passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the age of 86, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 16, 1940, in Lafayette, Louisiana to Frances Venable Benoit. He was a graduate of Lafayette High School and later attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette prior to entering the service. Gerald proudly served our country in the United States Navy. He retired from Prudential after more than 40+ years as an insurance professional.

Gerald is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Annette Richard Bower; their daughters Christi Bower Sevario and Monique Bower DeBenedictis and her husband Chris; their grandchildren, Cade and Cole Sevario, Caleb and Kaylee DeBenedictis; and their great-granddaughter, Ellen Kate Sevario; as well as numerous other family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents.

Special thanks to his friend, Vince Misuraca for being at his side as a lifetime friend.

He was a proud member of the Kiwanis Club of Crowley, Catholic Usher for several Catholic Churches, Breakfast Club with lifelong friends, Insurance Instructor and a member of the professional CLU association.

He enjoyed spending time golfing, fishing, woodworking, and most of all Cajun dancing. Gerald had many close friends through the years and never met a stranger. He will be remembered for his friendly heart, quick wit and the laughter he shared with everyone he met. Above all else, his family was the center of his life, and nothing brought him more pride or happiness than his wife, children and grandchildren, whom he loved beyond measure.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Highway in Baton Rouge with Deacon Paul Soileau officiating. A Visitation will be held at the funeral home beginning at 9:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory.

The family would like to thank St. Joseph Hospice for their care during this time.

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