Gary John Meise

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.