Gary John Meise, son of Helmut and Friedel Meise, was born on August 9,1965, in Goodlark Hospital, Dickson Tennessee. He passed away on October 21, 2025, at Lady of Our Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at the age of 60.
Gary graduated from Dickson County Senior High School in 1983 as the valedictorian. He was also voted Most Intellectual by his peers and chosen by the faculty to be the Gold Medal Faculty Award recipient. In addition to being an Eagle Scout, he was a National Merit Scholar Finalist, which earned him a full scholarship to attend Vanderbilt University. He earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry in 1987 and, following several years as a science teacher at Donelson Christian Academy, was admitted to Vanderbilt law School, earning his law degree in 1997. Gary was admitted to the bar that same year. He worked as an associate attorney for Bass, Berry, and Sims, a law firm in Nashville, Tennessee
In addition to excelling academically, he had a fierce passion for music, early in life as a clarinetist, and throughout his life as a chorister. As recently as a day before his passing he was sharing with his friends and family music that moved him profoundly, such as Beethoven’s String Quartet No.15 in A minor Op. 132.
Following several years in the practice of law, Gary began a long struggle with mental health and addiction, leading to many years in and out of treatment; however, even during those dark times of struggle, he continued to use his multiple talents to contribute to many different communities in many ways.
In his final years as a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he was an active member of the University Presbyterian Church, serving as an elder. He was also a member of the University Presbyterian Chancel Choir, the Baton Rouge Symphony Chorus, and the Baton Rouge Community Chorus.
Gary frequently devoted his intellectual skills to various community organizations, specifically serving Together Baton Rouge, a nonprofit organization devoted to improving the community by building relationships across racial, religious, and political affiliations.
Gary is survived by his sister, Dotty (Chuck) Quinn; his brothers, Herbert (Cathy) Meise and Michael (Cindy Freeman) Meise; his two daughters, Ashley (Adam) Walsh and Andie Meise; and his grandson, Patrick Walsh.
All arrangements will be made through Taylor Funeral Home. A “Celebration of Life” memorial service will be held at Dickson First Presbyterian Church on November 22, 2025, at 3:00 PM. University Presbyterian Church of Baton Rouge will also host a gathering prior to church choir rehearsal on November 5, 2025 at 6PM. The family asks any memorial gifts to be made to the Dickson County Help Center or Together Baton Rouge or the Baton Rouge University Presbyterian Church.
17 Responses
Dear Family of Gary Meise,
I have such good memories of Gary from his time at University Presbyterian Church. I remember when I first met him at a gathering, he told me funny stories from his youth. I also remember his beautiful singing voice and how he would lead our congregation in song. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Prayers,
Kathy Rossman
We thank you so much and the entire UPC family. You all did so much for him in so many ways. It was always comforting to
Know you were all there for him. He truly loved the University Presbyterian Church. God Bless You all.
So sorry, what does one say, when they call you their first friend. A memory popped up on my FB page, Gary was wishing me a belated happy birthday. So many memories.
I know he loved you very much. Thank you for being such a wonderful friend for him.
Michael
We are sending his family, congregation,
and close friends all our love. Gary was a force of nature and leaves an enormous void.
I was fortunate to attend law school with Gary for a couple of years. His infectious laugh and beyond brilliant smile brought so much warmth and humanity to the program. If you were having a bad day, Gary was there with a hug. And if you were having a great day, there was nobody better to celebrate in your personal victories.
I am so sorry to hear about Gary’s death and sorry that I found out so late. May God give his family comfort and peace.
Glenda
Thank you so much for your kind words. He will be profoundly missed.
Enjoyed singing with Gary in Baton Rouge University Presby. He contributed so much but “the devil” would bite him, he’d be sick, then, by golly he would come back with spirit and positive outlook. Gary can be singing in the Heavenly chorus and be well. Prayers for family.
I am so sorry to hear this. Praying for peace for all of the family.
Thank you so much for your kind words. He is profoundly missed.
Heartfelt prayers and sympathy to all his family and friends. I was a classmate of Gary’s in law school, and we shared much laughter and some tears, too. He was generous, sweet, thoughtful, humble, and possessed an infectious smile. I am eternally grateful to him for the gifts he shared with me during that time. I wish for you, in due course, comfort and peace, and extend thanks for your having shared him with me. God bless, Tim Swensen
I worked with Gary at DCA many years ago. He was an absolute treasure as a colleague and such a wonderful teacher and mentor to our students. I’m so sorry for your loss.
I told him many times he seemed happiest when teaching. I’ve been so touched to see these responses from his former students and colleagues. Thank you for your thoughts.
I’m so sorry to hear about Gary’s passing. He taught my twin brother at DCA, and had a profound impact on our lives. His genuine kindness and big heart was something very special. He was our favorite teacher by far. My mom even hired him to tutor us at our home after the school days were over. We had many special times with him at school and outside of school. His infectious smile was one of the best I’ve ever known. Thank you Gary for being so good so Vince and I. I’ll see in up in heaven some day. 🙏
I always believed Gary should have been a teacher throughout his life. I’m so glad he had a profound influence on you both.
I taught with Gary at DCA. He always made everyone’s day brighter. I’m so very sorry to hear of his death.
To Gary’s family: I knew Gary while a teacher at Donelson Christian Academy. He was a bright light here to his students and faculty alike. I pray that his memory will live on through his kind deeds and loving words.