Bobby R. Gahagan

Coushatta, LA - Bobby Ray Gahagan of Coushatta, LA passed away on December 17, 2018 at the age of 88. While his family and friends mourn the loss of a wonderful man, we take solace that he has found an eternal resting place of peace and happiness. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, William Dolphus and Ellie Mae of Hall Summit, LA and his step-grandson, Michael Shaw of Shreveport, LA. Bob was born in Ashland, LA on November 9, 1930. Bob served in the US Army in the Korean War, being awarded the Bronze Star for meritorious service in a combat zone with the rank of Sergeant. Bob returned from abroad during the late months of 1952. Soon after his return, he married Martha Gardner and they made their home in the Edgefield subdivision in Coushatta, LA. After his homecoming, Bob was first employed by the American Bank for several years. Later he joined the Bank of Coushatta where he enjoyed a distinguished career of over 30 years, serving as a member of the board of directors, a position he held until his death. Bob enjoyed travelling the country with his wife and friends in their recreational vehicles. As a proud employee and director of the Bank of Coushatta, Bob regularly worked with parish and business leaders in Red River Parish and surrounding areas to grow schools and businesses. He and Martha were most proud, though, of their grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as "Daddy Bob", the nickname given by his late step-grandson, Michael Shaw. He took great pride in teaching them how to ride a two-wheeled bicycle and to tie their shoes. These seemingly small achievements have loomed large in the memory of Bob's children and grandchildren in the week since his death. He is survived by his wife, Martha Gardner Gahagan of Coushatta, LA, two sons, Joe Timothy Gahagan ("Timmy") and wife Lisa of Bossier City, LA, Walter Stevenson Gahagan ("Wally") and wife Cindy of Monroe, LA, and daughter, Amanda Gahagan Crotwell ("Mandie") and husband Lars of Tulsa, OK, in addition to his numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Doris Finnigan ("Dot") of Carlyss, LA. Services will be held Saturday, December 22, 2018 at 10:00 am at First Baptist Church of Coushatta, LA. Internment at Social Springs Cemetery will be held for Mr. Gahagan immediately following the conclusion of the service. Visitation will be Friday evening, December 21, 2018, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Family Life Center at First Baptist. Pallbearers will be Tyler Gahagan, Champy Gahagan, Trevor Gahagan, Jordan Gahagan, Andrew Crotwell, and Chaise Owens. Honorary Pallbearers are Jim Bethard, Robert Bethard, Dr. William DeFee, Buck Dickson, Harry Lawson, Henry Bethard, Ben Bethard, Jerry Glover, Ronnie Farrar, David McCoy, Pat Murray, Patrick Murray, Wesley Murray and Rob Murray. In lieu of flowers, please honor Bob's wishes with memorials sent to a non-profit organization of the donor's choice.