Bernnel "Big Bernnel" January Sr.

Bernnel, referred to by his family as “Big Bernnel”, was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a Proud Member and Photographer for Knights of Columbus, a Leader and Mentor for the Brothers Youth Program, an Enthusiastic Organizer of Family and Office gatherings, a School Volunteer and Education Philanthropist, an active Member of AARP, a loyal New Orleans Saints Fan, even through their notorious paper bag era, a self-proclaimed Chef de Cuisine, and a Logistic Coordinator for Kerr-McGee, where he was employed for over 35 years.

In 1981, he was stationed in Jakarta, Indonesia, where local residents lovingly confused him for Muhammad Ali and where he met his wife of 40 years, Yuliana Suprapti January.

Along with his wife, those left to cherish his wonderful memory are; his son, Bernnel "Bernie" Joseph January Jr. and his wife, Natasha, of New Orleans, La; his daughter, Yuliana January Johnson and her husband, Joshua, of Ruston, La; two grandchildren, Jordan Johnson and Gabrielle Johnson; and four sisters, Aline "Rocky" January, Emily January, Faye "Bebe" Spriggs, and Eva "Pookie" January.

He was reunited in heaven with his parents, Arceneaux and Ethel January; five brothers, Henry "Junior", Larry, Arceneaux "Bubba", Joe, and Donald "Big Newt" January; and three sisters, Sapphire January, Mary-Ann January, and Pam Yerby.

The family requests that a time of visitation and remembrance take place on Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 11am until time of service at Hargrave Funeral Home.

A celebration of Big Bernnel's life will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 1pm at Hargrave Funeral Home with Sareeta Spriggs officiating. Dismissal will follow the service.