Retired Major Gerald Edward Gomez died on Monday, July 10, 2017, at the age of 61. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family.

He was born in Bogalusa on Oct. 14, 1955.

He was a member of Annunciation Catholic Church and an alumnus of Annunciation Catholic School. After graduating from Bogalusa High School in 1974, he became the manager of K & B in Bogalusa where he worked for 10 years until he fulfilled his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer.

He faithfully served the city of Bogalusa as a police officer for over 30 years, beginning as a reserve officer and retiring at the rank of major. Throughout his service, he strived to make the city of Bogalusa a better place. He was a mentor to many young and seasoned police officers. It was his hope that his lessons will carry on in these individuals so they can continue to make the city of Bogalusa a better place for all.

Besides being a police officer, he was also someone that others could look up to and depend on. He was a leader that demonstrated respect and compassion for others. He positively impacted the lives of so many while asking for nothing in return. He deeply loved his family and friends. He was a model of strength, integrity, and honor. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Theresa Hunt Gomez; a daughter, Marie Gomez Goff; a son, Josh Goff; and a grandson, Leo Edward Goff. He is also survived by one sister, Patty Territo and her husband Tommy; one sister-in-law, Ginger Gomez; two brothers, Stephen Gomez and his wife Kendra and Michael Gomez and his wife Kim; his mother-in-law, Marie Hunt; one brother-in-law, Shelton Hunt and his wife Cheryle; four sister-in-laws, Lynn Jenkins and her husband Denton, Cathy Willis and her husband Larry; Marianne Bennett and her husband Sonny; as well as his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Sherburne “Jack” Gomez and Juanita “Nita” Leblanc; a brother, S.J. Gomez; and his father-in-law, William “Bill” Hunt.

The family also wishes to thank Dr. Jack Saux and Dr. Brandon Bean, as well as Mindy Baughman of St. Tammany Parish Hospice who assisted him throughout his extended battle with cancer.

Visitation will be held at Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home in Bogalusa on Wednesday, July 12, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. with the Rosary and Divine Mercy being held at 6 p.m. Visitation will continue on Thursday, July 13, at Annunciation Catholic Church at 10 a.m. with a Funeral Mass beginning at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Father Daniel Brouillette officiating.

Pallbearers will be Retired Major Mike Godwin, Captain Charlie Helton, Retired Major Paul Herrington, Retired Captain Kenny Kellis, Major Percy Knight, Master Trooper Chris McCleland, Deputy Roy Scroggs and Captain Jeff Varnado. Honorary pallbearers will be Major Scott Adams, Josh Goff, Leo Goff, Retired Patrolman First Class Timmy Stewart, Marshall John Sumrall, and former Patrolman First Class Jason Williams.

Interment will follow at Ponemah Cemetery.