James Michell Bernhard

James Michell Bernhard, Jr., affectionately known as “Jim,” passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at the age of 71. Widely recognized as one of Louisiana’s most influential business leaders, he built and guided companies that transformed industries and strengthened communities. Above all else, Jim was most proud to be a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—roles into which he poured his heart and for which he will be deeply missed.

Born on April 9, 1954, in Baton Rouge, Jim lived a life defined by family, hard work, and service to others. After graduating from his beloved alma mater, LSU, he founded The Shaw Group and grew it into one of the most significant industrial and infrastructure companies in the world.

After selling The Shaw Group, Jim co-founded Bernhard Capital Partners in 2013, a private equity firm recognized globally as a leader in investing in critical infrastructure and essential services. Today, BCP embodies Jim’s vision for combining operational excellence with a disciplined investment strategy to build stronger communities.

Through all of his business endeavors, Jim put people first. He spent countless hours instilling safety values in every team he worked with and developing employees at every level. His mentorship has touched hundreds of our region’s most successful business leaders and shaped organizations that continue to make an impact across the country today.

Jim saw opportunities where others saw obstacles and proved that with dedication and determination, no dream is ever too big. Though he was often approached to relocate his business outside the state, he remained steadfast in his love for Louisiana and his unwavering belief in its people. His commitment to building strong, successful companies in his home state reflected his loyalty and vision for what Louisiana could achieve and shaped the legacy he leaves behind.

Jim was deeply committed to giving back to the community that raised him. He supported numerous civic, educational, and charitable initiatives, believing that strong communities are built through service and opportunity. His generosity has impacted many organizations, including St. George Catholic Church and School, The Dunham School, TRUCE, Team Sportsplex, MOVEBR, and his foundation, Every Kid a King. While much of Jim’s community contributions were made in private and without credit, his reputation for selfless giving will live on through his investment in The Shaw Center for the Arts—a cornerstone project that catalyzed growth and progress in downtown Baton Rouge.

Jim also quietly supported many other people in need across the country, including the Falge Farmworkers’ families in Carmel Valley, California; No Kid Hungry in Virginia and other states; Chief Cares fund to support relief efforts in Hurricane Helene’s affected areas, including North Carolina; Operation Helping Hands in Los Angeles; Mentors & Meals in Lexington, Kentucky; and numerous others in need throughout the United States, the Caribbean islands, and elsewhere.

In his leisure time, Jim enjoyed thoroughbred racing and traveling with his beloved wife, Dana, and their family. He and Dana nurtured their shared passion through ownership of the historic Pin Oak Stud in Kentucky, where Jim took pride in preserving the land, caring for the animals, and maintaining a culture of tradition and excellence. They owned and raced several standout champion horses, including Geaux Rocket Ride, who won the Grade I Haskell Stakes and finished second in the Pacific Classic in 2023. The Bernhards were later recognized as OwnerView's New Owner of the Year. He found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved and the memories they created together. Jim is preceded in death by his father, James Bernhard, Sr., and his sister, Peggy Bernhard.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Dana Lynn (Reneau) Bernhard; his mother, Barbara Ann Savage Bernhard; his adored children, Kathryn Gerry (John), Benjamin Bernhard (Jenna), Michael Bernhard (Rachel), Patrick Bernhard (Amelie), and Tres Bernhard; his eight cherished grandchildren, Ella Lynne Bernhard, James Michael Bernhard IV, Blake Bernhard, Violet Bernhard, Ainsley Bernhard, Jack Gerry, Remi Gerry, and Sloane Gerry. Jim will also be lovingly remembered by his sister, Janice Bernhard; brother, Kenneth Bernhard; brother-in-law, Dr. John Reneau; and father-in-law, Dr.

Daniel D. Reneau. The family invites all who knew and loved Jim to join them in honoring his extraordinary life. A visitation will take place at St. George Catholic Church, 7808 St. George Dr., Baton Rouge, on Monday, November 24, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be officiated by Rev. Paul Yi at 12:00 p.m., with a private family graveside burial to follow. A reception will follow at the Kleinpeter Activity Center.