Gary Hammond

Gary Cheston Hammond, 80, passed away at the Minnesota Masonic Home on Friday, June 13, 2025, after a sudden and brief struggle with liver cancer. Gary spent the last 12 years moving around, along with his daughter’s family, to Texas, Nebraska, then Minnesota, but he was proud to call New Orleans home. He was born to Ethel Granier Hammond on January 28, 1945, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Gary was his Mom’s world, and she was supported by an aunt and uncle, along with many doting cousins who took care of Gary like he was their own. After graduating from West Jefferson High School, he soon began working at the Jefferson Parish water treatment plant on the West Bank of New Orleans. During this time, Gary also served as a Navy Reservist for six years. His 30-year career at the water plant included over 20 years as the superintendent of the plant where he inspired countless employees, fostered future leaders, and earned many accolades and awards for the quality of the water and his leadership of the facility.

In his second career, Gary earned his contractor’s license and oversaw the building of several single family homes on the West Bank and other areas of the state until Hurricane Katrina brought that chapter to a close. Gary often said that he’d make more money if he didn’t care so much about doing things the right way. These career paths were fulfilling and paid the bills, but Gary’s absolute favorite “job” was lead singer of a band. The singing bug hat hit at a very young age, and his claim to fame was that he was emcee at the age of 6 of a school show where he soloed with “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.” But it wasn’t until the 1980s that Gary was able to live his dream of singing his heart out on the stage. It brought joy to his world and to those who had the opportunity to hear him.

Gary is survived by his wife of 8 years (this time, plus a previous 18), June Stith Samrow, their daughter Lori Hammond Weedon, son-in-law Charles AJ Weedon, III, and grandchildren Joshua Lee and Emily June Weedon. There was also a very special place in Gary’s heart for his godson, Glenn Russo.

Gary’s life will be celebrated at Mothe Funeral Home in Harvey, Louisiana, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 5-7pm. Anyone who knew and loved Gary and/or his loved ones is invited to come and share their condolences and stories about how he touched their lives. We will welcome anyone who wants to share words publicly to do so in the 6:00-6:30 window.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in remembrance of Gary.