George Rew "Gere" Covert

George Rew Covert, "Gere" (pronounced Jerry) passed away at his home after a brief illness on Wednesday, November 24, 2015, surrounded by his loved ones. Gere was born October 21, 1929 and grew up in Jackson, Mississippi. He moved to Baton Rouge and attended Baton Rouge High for two years, graduating in 1948. He was captain of the track team and loved to tell stories of a race against Bubba Bateman and John Pettibone who were running so close behind, they literally scared him into first place! After graduating from LSU, he served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict, returning home to enter LSU Law School. In 1957, Gere received his Juris Doctorate and began his legal career. In the early 1980's he took one asbestos case, which changed his focus for the rest of his life. He became a leading force throughout the state in assisting individuals who contracted asbestos-related lung disease, remaining active in this pursuit until the end of his life. He always credited his successful career to the support and assistance of the only two secretaries who worked with him during his 58 years practicing law-- Martha Cox and Gail Lamousin. Gere was a member of the Baton Rouge Bar Association, Louisiana Trial Lawyers Association, and the Louisiana Bar Association. He was a member of the Baton Rouge City Club and former member of the Baton Rouge Country Club. He was also a former member of the Bocage Racquet Club where his Saturday morning games with Dan LeBlanc, Toot and Frank Maraist, or an innocent fourth, became legendary. Gere was one of the original members of the 60 year old B & B Supper Club. Gere loved most to have the company of his family and friends, especially when they gathered at his home. He particularly enjoyed the 12 International students he and Joan took under their wings over the years. He cared little about personal possessions but was very sensitive and generous to the needs and wants of those around him. His travels were a source of great joy, but spending time at his house on Pensacola Beach made him happiest! He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Joan Bodman Covert, son Steve Covert, son Scott Covert and Isabel Mercado and grand-daughter Isabella Covert, and son Christopher Covert; step-grandson, Nelson LeBlanc; stepson, Walter Tenney and Alicia White, step-grandson William Tenney; stepbrother, Earl Bodman of Bradenton, Florida, and cousins Rew and Ann Covert of Gonzales, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred Williams Covert and George Stefan Covert; his first wife of 33 years, Jane Hamilton Covert; and his step- daughter, Tracey Tenney LeBlanc. A memorial service with family members was performed on Thanksgiving Day; The Reverend Charles Wood officiated. Thanks and praise were offered for this wonderful man who will always be remembered for his positive nature and remarkable quick wit. He was fond of saying, ""if you learn to laugh at yourself, you will always be amused."" Special thanks to our beautiful caregivers, Daren Harrell and Viola Fort; our caring nurses, Shannon Simmons and Jill Rehn and The Hospice of Baton Rouge. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to The Hospice of Baton Rouge, 9063 Siegen Lane, Baton Rouge, LA 70810; or the International Hospitality Foundation, LSU Box 22037, 101 LSU Student Union Bldg., Baton Rouge, LA 70803; or the charity of your choice.