News Summary
Gary Paul ‘GP’ Yellen, a beloved businessman in Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away at the age of 74. His dedication to family, community, and entrepreneurial spirit left a lasting impact. A memorial service will be held on April 22, 2025, to honor his legacy.
Shreveport Bid Farewell to a Beloved Local Businessman: Gary Paul “GP” Yellen Remembered
In the heart of Shreveport, Louisiana, the community is coming together to remember a cherished local figure, Gary Paul “GP” Yellen, who peacefully passed away at the age of 74 on Saturday, April 19, 2025. Born on September 10, 1950, in the same vibrant city, GP was a lifelong resident whose impact on the community will not be soon forgotten.
A Family Man and Business Advocate
GP was the proud son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles and Sara Yellen, and he grew up surrounded by love and support from his family. His formative years were spent at Creswell Elementary School, followed by Broadmoor Junior High, and finally at C.E. Byrd High School, all right here in Shreveport. GP’s roots ran deep in the community, and he continued a family tradition, working in and managing the family business, Yellen’s Levis, which became a staple in the area.
As time marched on, GP transitioned from Yellen’s Jeans to Yellen’s “Big and Tall” on the bustling Shreveport Barksdale Highway. It was here that he continued to build both his family’s legacy and a reputation for outstanding service. His dedication to the job led him to a position at Burlington Coat Factory, where he distinguished himself with remarkable sales performance. This commitment to excellence earned him numerous accolades during his tenure, showcasing his unwavering determination to succeed and support his community.
Personal Life and Legacy
The loss of GP is deeply felt, not only because of his professional contributions but also due to his personal connections. Preceded in death by his loving family members, including his parents, sister Darlene Yellen Swiff, and grandparents, GP leaves behind a close-knit family that includes his brother, Harvey Moise Yellen, and sister-in-law Marla. The Yellen family certainly has their hands full with the legacy of love GP has passed down through generations.
He is also survived by cherished nieces and nephews, including Kim Swiff Swartz and her husband David Carl, Helen Swiff Goodman and her husband Jason, Ansley Yellen Feldman and her husband Sandy, as well as Brian Yellen and Jeff Yellen and his wife, Jennifer. The family will treasure GP’s memory with the support of 14 great-nieces and great-nephews who looked up to him with admiration.
A Community Gathers to Remember
The community is invited to honor GP’s life and legacy at a memorial service taking place on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, from 2:00 – 3:00 PM (Central Time) at the serene Agudath Achim Cemetery located in Shreveport. Family and friends will gather to share their memories and pay their respects as pallbearers, including David Carl Swartz, Jason Goodman, and others from his close circle, help carry GP to his final resting place.
As the Shreveport community reflects on the life of Gary Paul “GP” Yellen, it is clear that he leaves behind an indelible mark on his loved ones and the city he called home. From his entrepreneurial spirit to his devoted family ties, GP’s story is one of love, resilience, and commitment—a true local icon who will be dearly missed.
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Additional Resources
- Obituary: Gary Paul “GP” Yellen
- Wikipedia: Gary Yellen
- Obituary: Elizabeth Ann Fraser
- Google Search: Elizabeth Ann Fraser
- Obituary: Donald Farrar
- Google Scholar: Donald Farrar
- Obituary: Michael Phillips
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Michael Phillips
- Obituary: Lorene Cochran
- Google News: Lorene Cochran
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
