Louis Eugene “Gene” Williams, Jr., of Bossier City, Louisiana, went to be with the Lord on August 24th, 2026 at the age of 71. He was born on March 11, 1955, in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Gene was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His family was the center of his world, and he took great pride in the people he loved. His contagious laughter, unwavering love, and the way he was always looking out for them will be treasured forever.
One of Gene’s greatest passions was the fire service. He devoted more than 33 years of his life to the Shreveport Fire Department, dedicating himself to helping and saving others. He retired in 2014 as a Battalion Chief, but his love for the department never left him.
Gene especially enjoyed training new recruits and spent countless hours helping applicants prepare for the CPAT agility test during his time there. He took great pride in helping others succeed and was always willing to share his knowledge and experience.
Gene was an avid hunter and loved the outdoors. Some of his happiest times were spent at the deer camp with his friends, sharing stories, laughter, and playing dominoes at the camp house in Coushatta. These memories will be treasured by all who had the privilege of sharing those moments with him.
If you were lucky enough to call Gene your friend, you had a friend for life. He loved laughter, raw humor, and the camaraderie he shared with his fire department family and hunting buddies. Gene was the life of the party and was never at a loss for words. His unmistakable laughter could bring a smile to your face, even on the hardest of days.
During his final days, Gene’s love for the fire department remained as strong as ever. He often returned to memories from his years with the department, reliving moments and talking about wanting to go back to work. It was clear that being a firefighter was not simply a career for Gene—it was a part of who he was.
Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Julie Williams; his children, Eugenia Williams and fiancé Jeff Bolfer, William Barnes and wife Jennifer, and Brittany Barnes; and his four grandchildren, Gavin Williams, Jadon Grant, Riley Barnes, and Graham Barnes. He is also survived by his sister, Diane Connell, and husband Richard; many cousins, nieces, and nephews; and many other loving family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Eugene Williams Sr. and Barbara Jean Williams.
The family would especially like to thank Michael Cook and Rusty Thames for the countless hours they spent sitting with Gene, caring for him, and loving on him during his final days. Their friendship and compassion meant more than words can express. The family would also like to thank Dr. Paul Guidry for his exceptional care and Life Path hospice for their empathy and compassion during this time.
A memorial service celebrating Gene’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 28, 2026, at Open Range Fellowship 9950 US 80, Greenwood, La 71033. A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m.
Graveside with follow at Forest Park East.
Gene will be deeply missed by his family, his fire department family, his hunting buddies, and the many friends whose lives he touched.
His laughter, his stories, his friendship, and his generous heart will live on in the memories of all who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to the Dementia Society of America in honor of Gene.