Gary Raymond Cattell

Gary Raymond Cattell, CMSgt., Ret., USAF

Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home, 3130 Arthur Ray Teague Parkway, Bossier City, LA 71112

Gary Raymond Cattell (Pa), 85, a proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, passed away August 30, 2022 after a long battle with COPD. He was surrounded by his loving family.  A Memorial Service will be held at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at First United Methodist Church of Bossier City officiated by the Rev. Mark Goins. The family will receive friends for visitation prior to the service at the church at 11:30 am. A Committal Service with Military Honors will follow at 2:00 pm at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery.

Gary was born in Jackson, MI on May 18, 1937.  His parents, Everett and Jessie Cattell were each the living embodiment of unconditional love. The Cattells had a home on Farwell Lake where Gary learned his love of water sports.

Gary graduated from Jackson High School, Jackson, MI in 1956 then joined the USAF February 4, 1957.  His first assignment was to Carswell AFB in Fort Worth, TX where he met Peggy Hardy. They married on May 31, 1958.

Gary highly valued his service in the USAF. He served for 26 years and attained the rank of Chief Master Sergeant.  He was proud to have worked for many generals, obtained superb work reviews and was honored with many medals, ribbons, and distinctions including the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters.  Gary was also a 32nd Degree Mason, Jackson Lodge No. 17, F. & A.M.

Gary’s love of water sports continued throughout his life where he excelled in swimming, surfing, water skiing and boating.  One could always find him glued to the TV every afternoon for Jeopardy!!

Four years ago, Pa moved to the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Home where he received excellent management and compassionate care. When asked how he was doing, he would always say he was a “happy camper” and he meant it mostly because of the love and special care given by Ernestine Mack.  “Mack”, you are a special human being and caregiver.  Words cannot express how much you are loved and appreciated! We also want to thank everyone at the Northwest Louisiana Veteran’s Home - with a special shout out to Rhonda Johnson, R.N. and Haley Mcleod, R.N.

Gary was predeceased by his parents, Everett and Jessie Cattell, Jackson, MI.

Gary is survived by his wife of 64 years, Peggy Cattell; daughters - Lynn Lloyd, M.D. (Murray), Brenda Scott (Kevin), Lisa Wessinger (Scott); and grandchildren - Melissa Scott, Brian Scott, and Katelynn Cattell Wessinger.

Many, many thanks to our chosen sisters Lynne Watson and Jamie Jinks. Your love and support has meant the world to all of us. And to Mike Vaughn, R.N., our sincerest gratitude for extending true grace to a neighbor.

Love and gratitude is also sent to Overton Brooks VA Medical Center 7 West and to the Palliative Care Team- especially Sheronica Williams, N.P.  Y’all are amazing!!

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Gary’s name to the American Lung Association or to a charity of your choice.