George James Bershen (Jim)

George James Bershen (Jim), passed away on November 14, 2025, at the age of 96. He was born on July 12, 1929, in Alexandria, LA, and grew up in Shreveport, LA. He graduated from Centenary College at the age of 19 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and government. He worked his way through college at Delta Airlines and Kansas City Train station. Upon graduation, he joined International Harvester Company in its Shreveport office in the general line warehouse department. In 1952, during the Korean War, he was drafted into the Army where he was made a Drill Sergeant at Camp Chaffe in Fort Smith, AR. After his service, he returned to International Harvester and became a salesman for the East Texas and North Louisiana territory. He was hired by Thomas Scott in March 1957 and moved to Monroe, LA. He worked his way up the ladder with the Scott Companies to CEO. He retired in February 2025 after 68 years of service.

Jim, aka, Mr. B, Daddy and Granddaddy, met Nelsie McFarland at Camp Chaffe. The two were married on June 26, 1954. They had five children, eight grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Jim and Nelsie traveled all over the world and loved telling stories of their adventures. They were frequent supporters of Monroe’s charitable events. Jim achieved many awards and accomplishments throughout his life. He was awarded the Kitty Degree Foundation Lifetime achievement award in business. He was a member of the Rotary Club, was Secretary-Treasurer of the Scott Foundation, board member and President (1987) of the Deep South Equipment Dealer’s Association and a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.

Mr. B was known to be a conservative, ethical and humble man with a positive attitude. He would wake his children up each morning with a trumpet sound and saying, “Something good is going to happen to you today.” He was a mentor and consultant, helping many with their business pursuits. Most importantly, he was a role model for his children, grandchildren and many others instilling in them that you must work hard for what you want. His influence on all that he knew will not be forgotten.

His main goal in life was to provide for all his children and grandchildren. He has been their rock and shepherd for all these years, and they will miss him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Nell Kathryn Bershen and by his wife of 69 years, the love of his life, Nelsie Bershen (“Mama”). He is survived by his children: Kay Barham (Emmett), Cheryl Metger (Jake), Shawn Morgan (Cobb), Nancy Bershen (Cole Smelser) and Jimmy Bershen; grandchildren: Mary Kathryn Barham, Anna Borgognoni (Scott), Gardner Barham, Tyler Metzger (Jennifer), Charlotte Metzger (John Montoya), Matt Minninger (Taylor), Bershen Minninger, and Auburn Morgan; and great grandchildren: Mason Metzger and Barrett Metzger.

The family would like to thank Alberta Simmons, Angie Lewis and Jackie Harris for their service to the family. A memorial visitation will be held at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Monroe, LA, on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 4 to 6 pm.

Be Careful up there Daddy/Granddaddy. A big 10-4 with a Salute! We will hold down the fort and call you if we need anything.

The Eagle has Flown.