Barney Leroy Core's Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Barney Leroy Core, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who died on November 16, 2024, at the age of 93. Barney was a man of many talents, passions, and accomplishments, leaving behind a legacy that touched the lives of all who knew him.
Barney was born on June 23, 1931, to Earl and Cora Lee Core. He was preceded in death by his son, Howard Earl Core, his parents, and his sisters Norma Jean Coleman, Marilyn Joyner, and Mary Catherine Howell (Glen). He is survived by his wife, Regina Bourgeois Core, his children, Stephanie Mendheim (Jack), Jan Blackwell, Gwen Mahorney (Jerry), his stepdaughters, Dr. Katherine Cox (Allen) and Sarah Stammen, and a brother, Edwin Earl Core (Marianne). He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Blake Mendheim (Caroline), Erin Guy (Keith), Andrew Mendheim (Lauren), Jami Robin (Todd), Josh Blackwell, Jeremy Blackwell, Corey Richardson (Megan), Chloe Wiard (Brett), Eric Mahorney, and Erica Taylor (Luke), and step-grandchildren, Frank Leroy Caminita, Valerie Caminita, and Brielle Cox. In addition, Barney was blessed with 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews whom he loved deeply.
Barney’s life was rich with experiences. He was a proud graduate of Covington High School, where he played football and basketball. He joined the U.S. Marines and served aboard the USS Princeton during the Korean War, where he excelled as a third baseman on the championship baseball team and was also a member of the swimming team. He often reminisced about his time in the service, sharing stories of his travels and experiences.
After his military service, Barney went on to become an accomplished plasterer and founded a successful terrazzo floor business. Through his business, he developed a passion for thoroughbred racing, becoming a respected figure in the industry. He was instrumental in forming the Louisiana Thoroughbred Breeders Association and won numerous awards for his horses over his lifetime. One of his greatest achievements was the founding of the Folsom Thoroughbred Training Center in 1982, a facility that continues to serve the community today. Barney mentored many, including Teddy Arndt, who helped him develop the center, along with others such as David Holloway, whom Barney helped raise and was incredibly proud of.
Barney was also involved in real estate, founding Smith and Core Real Estate, where he played a key role in developing local subdivisions such as Wimberly Estate, Cherry Hill, and Highlands. His work in real estate helped shape the local community, and he continued to be a fixture in the industry for many years.
A true outdoorsman, Barney loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with friends. He had a hunting camp in Mississippi, where he enjoyed the company of his good friend Herman Sharp and Herman’s sons, Wendell and Bim.
Barney was a man of integrity, kindness, and generosity. He was proud of his family and his many accomplishments, but above all, he treasured the relationships he built throughout his life. He was especially passionate about giving back to others, and for over 60 years, he made donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital to support their mission. His unwavering commitment to helping children in need was a testament to his compassionate and giving spirit.
Barney will be remembered as a man who lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed laughter, good times with friends, and most of all, his family. His quick wit, generous spirit, and love of life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He will be forever in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Mr. Core may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org/donate.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend an evening wake on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 West 21st Avenue, Covington, Louisiana, from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM.
Relatives and friends are also invited to attend the funeral service on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 2:00 PM at E. J. Fielding Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 12:00 PM. Interment will follow in Allison Cemetery, 77075 Sharp Road, Folsom, Louisiana.
E. J. Fielding Funeral Home of Covington, Louisiana, is honored to be entrusted with Mr. Core’s funeral arrangements. His family invites you to share thoughts, memories, and condolences by signing an online guestbook at www.ejfieldingfh.com.
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