James J. "Jerry" Buras Sr.

BURAS, James Jeremiah “Jerry”, Sr., of Gretna, La., Age 95 years

Six weeks short of his 96th birthday, Jerry went to eternal rest on August 23, 2024 after a brief illness with his wife, children and grandchildren by his side. His mind was sharp and witty until the very end. Mr. Buras was a native of Algiers and resident of Gretna for the past 56-1/2 years. Beloved husband for the past 59 years of EvaBlanche “E. B.” Temento-Buras, Father of EvaBlanche “Eeb” Buras Centanni (Dennis Pearson), CherylAnn Buras McMillen (Jason) and James J. “Rusty” Buras, II (Elaina Simon), Grandfather of John Cosmo “Cos” Centanni, III (Nicole), Serguis Elmore Centanni, Grant Vinsel McMillen, Samuel James McMillen, Olivia “Otis” James Buras, and Vivienne James Buras. Son of the late Herbert J. Buras, Sr. of Point Pleasant, LA, and Anna Mae Treadaway Buras of Amesoille, LA. Brother of the late Herbert J. Buras, Jr. (Rosemary), Edward L. Buras, Sr. (Jackie), and Harry “Lee” Buras (Gloria, Jeanette) as well as many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, and great grandnieces and grandnephews, he was known by many as “Chief”. A soft-spoken yet headstrong man, his joys in life were woodworking in his garage, caring for his vegetable garden, but most of all spending time at his fishing camp on Grand Bayou with family and friends. He outfished his fishing buddies, Rusty, Vivienne, Vincent Lobue, Jr., Ron Galle, David Aucoin, the late Bill Treadaway, Bobby Aucoin and his brother Herbert, and he enjoyed life with them. During the holidays he made cranberry sauce, orange marmalade and old fashioneds by the gallon, which will be missed. He even taught his niece, Gwen Guillotte how to carry on the cranberry tradition by passing on the secret recipe. After retirement, he and his son renovated historic properties in Old Gretna for his daughters. He made beautiful furniture, cabinets and architectural details for his children’s homes. A few unfinished projects remain (including mom’s bathroom) as he worked until his last week. He could make or fix anything - just ask Julie Guidry, his neighbor. A season ticket holder since the inception of the team, he was always in that number supporting the Saints. With his wife, Jerry has visited all fifty states and several countries. P’Chouette “PeeWee”, his Havanese dog, will be sure to miss his morning pie and evening ice cream. The three of them were inseparable until the end (unless Jerry was fishing). Jerry served in the Air Force at Kirtland Air force Base in New Mexico during the Korean War. He was employed with Avondale Shipyards, Harvey Repair Division in 1947 until his retirement as assistant manager in 1995. He belonged to many organizations throughout his life including the Knights of Columbus Santa Maria Council and St. Cletus Council, Marine Club, Mark Twain Club, as well as the krewes of Poseidon and Alla. Relatives and Friends of the family are invited to attend the Visitation at Mothe Funeral Home, 2100 Westbank Exwy., Harvey, La. From 9 A.M. until 11 A.M. on Saturday, August 31, 2024. A Funeral Mass will take place at 11 A.M. followed by Interment in Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Gretna. Family and friends may view and sign the online guestbook at www.mothefunerals.com. Donations to St. Patrick Catholic Church, 724 Camp Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 is preferred.