Baton Rouge, LA - Gerald Wayne "Jerry" Courtney, a lifelong resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away at the age of 77. Jerry was born in Baton Rouge to Bill N. Courtney and Melda Hoover Courtney. Following high school, he pursued biblical studies at Delgado Community College, beginning a lifelong journey of faith. Throughout the years, Jerry served as a leader in several church communities. His faith became especially important during the last decade of his life, and he was a devoted member and spiritual leader at As One Church in Denham Springs. Jerry also served in the United States Army at Fort Polk during the Vietnam era. A true people person, Jerry rarely met a stranger and was always willing to help someone in need. He had a generous spirit and helped countless people throughout his life, whether through his time, talents, financial generosity, friendship, or encouragement. Jerry worked for Dow Chemical for many years before following his entrepreneurial spirit and starting Courtney Signs. He was proud of the custom signs he created throughout the Baton Rouge area. Over the years, he also managed the family RV park, owned and managed rental properties, and spent many years investing in and remodeling real estate. One of Jerry's greatest passions was fishing. He loved being on the water with family and friends, especially his father, brother Billy, nephew Landon, and in recent years, his fishing buddies Shawn Berg and "Captain T-Mike." He also treasured his long-time friendship with Anton La Grange. Jerry was proud of his fishing boat and his Mercedes, affectionately known as the "Cream Puff." Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Bill N. Courtney and Melda Hoover Courtney; and his beloved sons, Jeremy Courtney and Corey Courtney. He is survived by his stepmother, Frankie Courtney; daughter, Vanessa Courtney Ladnier; son, Jordan Courtney; brothers, Kelvin "Kelly" Courtney (Debra) and Billy Courtney (Nancy); sister, Judy Courtney; grandchildren, Jayden, Baylor, and DeLaney Ladnier, and Elora, Gideon, Gemma and Elias Courtney; and great-granddaughter, Blakely. Jerry also treasured his longtime friendships with Carla Mastronicola and Mike Pittenger. Carla's friendship, care, and support, especially her devotion to him during his final months, meant a great deal to him. Mike worked closely with Jerry for many years as a trusted right-hand man in his real estate business and were close friends who saw each other almost every day for the last several years. Jerry will be remembered for his strong personality, generous heart, entrepreneurial spirit, love of fishing, and, above all, his faith and willingness to help others. Serving as pallbearers will be Jonathan Courtney, Daniel Courtney, Landon Courtney, Baylor Ladnier, Shawn Berg, and David Newchurch. Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Jerry's life on Saturday, August 15, at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70816, beginning at 9:30 AM until the Funeral Service at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory.