Wallace A. "Billy" Gesser, Jr., a beloved figure in New Iberia, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on January 16, 1946, at the old Dauterive Hospital, Billy was the only child of Lorraine Barrow Gesser Bernard and Wallace A. Gesser, Sr., both of whom predeceased him. As an infant, he was lovingly raised by his mother and his grandparents, Leonard James Barrow, Sr. and Lillian Voorhies Barrow.
Billy was affectionately known as "New Iberia's Mr. Mardi Gras." His passion for the Mardi Gras celebrations began at the tender age of four when he accompanied his grandparents to New Orleans. Watching parades from the balcony of the Monteleone Hotel with his grandmother instilled in him a lifelong love for the festivities. Over his 78 years, he proudly attended 60 years of Mardi Gras celebrations, forging lasting friendships in New Orleans and becoming a cherished guest at events hosted by the Krewe of Endymion, Krewe of Bacchus, and particularly the Krewe of Zulu, where he had the honor of being a special guest.
Billy's unforgettable experiences included the lavish parties and Zulu Coronation Ball, early-morning Zulu breakfast, and riding a float in the Zulu Parade while giving out the highly sought after Zulu Coconuts. The joy of sharing these prized treasures with parade-goers solidified his role as a local legend during the festivities.
While Billy’s heart belonged to New Orleans, his roots were firmly planted in New Iberia. He dedicated many years of service to Acadiana Pontiac and Evangeline Funeral Home, but his true calling was being a steadfast friend to those around him. Billy was known for his generous spirit—always ready to provide transportation, lend a hand, or simply share a cup of coffee with anyone in need. His extensive knowledge of local history, politics, and, of course, Mardi Gras made him a beloved figure in the community.
Billy’s warm smile and open heart left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. He was not just a friend; he was family to many. His legacy of kindness and joy will continue to inspire all who had the pleasure of sharing in his life.
Those left to cherish his memory are his cousins, Russell Bourgeois, Barrow Bourgeois, MD, Langdon Bourgeois, John Bourgeois, Louise Bourgeois Ransonet, Virginia Bourgeois Zimmerman, Jimmy Barrow, Debbie Barrow Hartman, Herman Gesser, Gerald Gesser and Edgar Gesser; and a host of friends that were his extended family.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Billy at 11:00 am on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at St. Peters Catholic Church, with Fr. David Furka as celebrant. Following the mass, Billy will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery.
A gathering of family and friends will be held at St. Peters Church on Thursday from 9:00 am until time of the mass.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Tiny Loston, Billy’s dear friend; his sitter Rose Mary Lee, and to Wendy Cole, his nurse with NSI Hospice for their care and compassion shown to Billy. You are greatly appreciated.
In keeping with Billy’s wishes, please consider a donation in his name to Shadows-on-the-Teche, 320 E Main St. New Iberia, LA 70560 https://www.shadowsontheteche.org/donate or to Bayou Teche Museum, 131 E Main St New Iberia, LA 70560 https://bayoutechemuseum.org/support/.
Relatives and friends are encouraged to share their condolences and memories with the family by visiting Billy’s memorial at www.evangelinenewiberia.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.
