Gilbert "Gil" "Coach" Jacob Besse

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Gilbert (Gil) Jacob Besse, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and dedicated member of the Morgan City community, who passed away December 17, 2025, at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 23, 1947, in Morgan City, Gil lived a life rich in love, laughter, and dedication to those around him.

Gil, fondly known as “Coach” by his friends and former students, dedicated many years of his life to teaching and coaching football at Morgan City Junior High. Coach had unwavering support for the New Orleans Saints, a team he cherished deeply; he also loved LSU and began a new passion for the Auburn Tigers because of his grandson, Ross. Known for his distinctive style of always donning shades of green, Gil was a vibrant and colorful character who brought joy to those around him. A proud family man, Gil had a special bond with his loving wife, Gerrie and he cherished every moment spent with his beautiful daughters and grandkids. Uncle Gil had numerous nieces and nephews that he loved dearly, treating them as if they were his own children. He was an avid fan of Louisiana history and spoke Cajun French with great pride, embodying the spirit of his heritage. Gil found immense pleasure in life’s simple joys—whether it was enjoying delicious food and sweets, taking in the serene beauty by the water, watching any sporting event, or sharing laughter with friends and family. He will be remembered for his warm heart, nurturing spirit, his kind eyes and for being a faithful servant to all. Coach could be seen on daily walks with his beloved dog, Harley.

He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife of 54 years, Geraldine Clement Besse, his three daughters, Dominique Besse Thomas and husband Scott, eLizabeth Besse, and Meredith Besse Maggio and husband Jon; three grandchildren, Ross Jacob Thomas, Rhett Underwood Thomas, Diana Lyn Maggio, siblings, Ferdinand Besse and wife Peggy, Paul Besse; sisters-in-law, Patricia Clement Cutrone, Judy Clement Pratka; and numerous nieces and nephews whom he adored.

Coach was preceded in death by his parents, Charles “Chuck” Besse and Enola Daigle Besse.

Pallbearers will be Ross Thomas, Rhett Thomas, Scott Thomas, Jon Maggio, Randy Breaux, Lawrence Cutrone, John Cutrone, Michael Cutrone. Honorary pallbearers will be Ferdinand Besse, Paul Besse, Victor Cutrone, Lisa Pratka, Arleene Breaux, and Marilyn Cutrone.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Brett Lapeyrousse officiating. Visitation will be held, Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church from 12:00 p.m. until the time of Mass. After Mass, Coach will be laid to rest in the Morgan City Cemetery.