James Daniel Meares, age 80, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, peacefully passed away at his home on March 13, 2023 surrounded by family. He was born on October 15, 1942, to the late Margret and Bert Meares. He was a native of Gloucester, North Carolina but his work as an engineer took him to Baton Rouge where he met the love of his life, Kathy. Kathy and James were married for over fifty years raising a family of four children. As a younger man, hobbies included family camping trips and coaching many youth sports teams for his children. He was instrumental in starting Troop 103 at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church where he served as Scout Master. During his time as Scout Master, he enjoyed guiding and helping young men develop wilderness skills while also grown in their civic responsibilities. Later in life he continued his love of camping, hiking, and kayaking, where he and Kathy took numerous fifth-wheel trips all across the country. He and Kathy were fixtures at all the St. Joseph Academy sporting events, playing the role of the upset parent when a call went against the girls. One of his greatest pleasures was sitting with Kathy in the front yard swing where he greeted all of the passersby, often striking up a conversation with a total stranger and purposefully taking the opposite position just to challenge them and lengthen the discussion. Professionally, James was a Registered Professional Civil Engineer in North Carolina and Louisiana and Registered Professional Land Surveyor in North Carolina and Louisiana and ran a successful engineering business. He dutifully served our country and is a veteran of the Army National Guard receiving an honorable discharge. Survivors include wife, Kathy; children Scott (Jennifer) of Corpus Christi, TX , Jeff (Jamie) of Baton Rouge, La., Jason (Sherie) of Frisco, TX., and Shawn (Scott) of Celina, Tx; sibling Elbert Meares; fourteen grandchildren Peyton, Jordan, Charlie, Abigail, Molly, Daniel, Kirsten, Maggie, Breanna, Chase, Kathryn, Brinley, Bradley, and Mason. He was preceded in death by his parents Margret and Bert Meares, nephew Greg Meares. Visitation will be held Monday March 20, 2023, 9:00 am to 10:00 am at Rabenhorst Funeral Home located at 11000 Florida Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70815 Memorial service and Reception to immediately follow. Interment will be a private family event.
