I remember Mr. James Lanier from my many visits to Badeaux's Drive In in Covington over the years. He was manager of Badeaux's for 26 years and many area residents remember his chocolate malts. My favorites were a hamburger, fries, and walnut milkshake.
He died in 2020 after quite a career, including military service on Air Force One. Here is the obituary provided by E. J. Fielding Funeral Home.
James Huey Lanier
James Huey Lanier, age 88, of Covington passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2020. He was born on January 15, 1932, in Husser, Louisiana to John Lanier and Bessie Williams Lanier.
James H. Lanier
James was preceded in death by his parents John and Bessie Lanier and his nine brothers and sisters.
James joined the United States Air Force in 1952, and served in the Vietnam War in 1966 and 1969. He served President Johnson his meals on Air Force One. James retired as a Master Sergeant from the Air Force after serving 20 years. James was the manager for Badeaux’s Drive-In in Covington, where he made the BEST hamburgers and malts in town and retired after 25 years. He was a devoted father, husband, and grandfather who enjoyed traveling all over the country to hear blue grass music. James also served as Deacon at Lee Hill Baptist Church until his illness prevented him from serving as Deacon.
He was survived by his beloved wife of 66 ½ years Isabell Ruth Pierre Lanier; his children Dale Kevin Lanier and Kenneth Blaine Lanier; 2 grandchildren Tiffany M. Prevost (Jeff) and Jonathan B. Lanier (Kristen); and 4 great grandchildren Blaine, Jillian, McKayla, and Hailey. He is also survived by his sister Elaine Lanier Davis, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Interment took place at Southeast Veterans Cemetery, 34888 Grantham College Road, Slidell, Louisiana 70460, on Monday, August 31, 2020.
