Leon Gordon Barnett, Jr.

He graduated from Jesuit High School in 1952, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Chemical) from Tulane University in 1956 where he was a member of the Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society and American Institute of Chemical Engineers. He received his Master of Science in Chemical Engineering from Tulane University in 1958.

He was married twice: to Ramona Rita Esquerre, mother of Sondi Barnett Stanton, Ilan Barnett Prichard, and Leon Gordon Barnett, III; and to Gayle Frances Bazin, mother of Lisa Ann Barnett and David Paul Barnett.

Leon was passionate about understanding how things worked, and found his calling as a chemical engineer. He enjoyed solving complex industrial challenges; and had a long, distinguished career well into his 70s. At various times he worked for Exxon, American Cyanamid, and Petro Marine prior to starting his own engineering firm. Notably, he was instrumental in the design of the Washington Parish landfill, a project that required four years to complete.

He enjoyed astronomy and international travel. He and Gayle, his beloved wife of 55 years, were blessed to experience so much of the world, including: Italy, France, Germany, Sweden, Greece, and Russia to name a few. He loved and provided for his family.

Leon is survived by his wife Gayle Barnett; and their children Lisa Barnett (Don) and David Barnett.

He is also preceded in death by his twin sisters Glynn Barnett Gaffney and Gloria Varnell, and his sister Marion Jones. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass at St. Clement of Rome, 4317 Richland Ave, Metairie on March 30, 2023 at 1:00pm. Visitation will begin at 11:00am.