James Barrett Haviland

James Barrett “Bear” Haviland, at the age of 62, passed away peacefully at his Denham Springs residence on February 24, 2024.

Bear was born October 27, 1961 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He was preceded in death by his mother- Bernie Amoroso, grandparents Shirley Pritchett and Walter Pritchett, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is survived by his daughter Kandice Dominic (Robert), son Chantz Haviland, grandchildren Jacob and Evan Dominic, brother John Leblanc (Sissie Truax), sister Renee Warren (Richard), aunt Nancy Quick, best friend Van Ratclif (Helen), neighbor Ray Walters, and many nieces and nephews. He was affectionately known as Uncle Bear to many regardless of blood relations.

Bear lived a life full of adventure starting with his service in the Marine Corps. When he wasn’t offshore with his company Oceaneering he could be found fishing, tinkering on something mechanical, on the back of a motorcycle, or (most likely) in a deer stand. He loved to take his motorcycle on long trips to beautiful places, especially the mountains of Tennessee. In the rare event that he would pause, he could be found in the rocking chair on the back porch or napping in his recliner.

Bear never met a stranger that he couldn’t turn into a friend. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and always leave them with a story to tell. He was only ever a phone call away from setting up a hunting or fishing trip. He took great pride in building and customizing firearms and reloading ammunition.

He was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren and was looking forward to seeing his son graduate from Nicholls State University in May. He will be missed by more than we can count and his spirit will live on in the stories shared by his friends and family.

Visitation will take place at Seale Funeral Home in Denham Springs on Saturday, March 2, 2024 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM and Sunday, March 3, 2024 from 9:00 AM until service time at 12:00 PM. Although we are unable to honor Bear’s request to send his ashes to the moon, his family will have a private ceremony with his cremations at a later date.