Baton Rouge banking and insurance leader Bob Greer dies at 77

Greer made an indelible impact on the community through his work and philanthropy.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Robert Stephenson 'Bob' Greer Jr., a respected figure in the insurance and banking industries, passed away in 2024 at the age of 77 following a brief illness. Greer spent his career in Baton Rouge, rising to become president and CEO of Union National Life Insurance Company and later serving as board chair of b1Bank. He was known for his community involvement, sharp dressing, and commitment to treating people with kindness.

Why it matters

Greer's passing marks the end of an era for Baton Rouge's business and philanthropic community. As a third-generation leader in the insurance industry and a prominent local banker, Greer left a lasting legacy through his work and dedication to making the city a better place.

The details

Greer started his career in the insurance industry in the 1960s, working his way up from a home service agent selling policies door-to-door to eventually becoming president and CEO of Union National Life Insurance Company. He later took on leadership roles with other local and national insurance companies while also serving on the boards of several prominent Baton Rouge organizations. In his role as board chair of b1Bank, Greer helped steer significant growth for the institution.

  • Greer graduated from LSU with a business degree in 1969.
  • Greer was promoted to staff manager at Union National Life Insurance Company within about three months of starting as a home service agent.
  • In 1971, Greer and his wife Alice moved to Tupelo, Mississippi, where he served as district manager.
  • Greer was promoted to executive vice president at Union National Life Insurance Company in 1973.
  • Greer passed away in 2024 at the age of 77 following a brief illness.

The players

Robert Stephenson 'Bob' Greer Jr.

A respected figure in the insurance and banking industries who spent his career in Baton Rouge, rising to become president and CEO of Union National Life Insurance Company and later serving as board chair of b1Bank.

Alice Dugas Greer

Greer's wife of nearly 58 years.

Jonathan Greer

Greer's son.

Steve Greer

Greer's son.

Fred Greer

Greer's grandfather, who co-founded Union National Life Insurance Company in 1926.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He was just an incredible person. He impacted so many people and believed in kindness and in treating people the way you want to be treated. He would say you need to work hard, and you can play hard, but you need to give back to your community.”

— Jonathan Greer, Son

“He'd come home after being in the field, and I'd ask him, 'What did you do for lunch?' He'd say, 'We got some potted meat and sat on the hood of the car.'”

— Alice Dugas Greer, Wife

“He was always the best dressed guy in the room. Even at a crawfish boil, he was dressed to the nines. And his hair was always perfect.”

— Steve Greer, Son

What’s next

The Baton Rouge community is expected to hold a memorial service to celebrate Greer's life and legacy in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Greer's passing marks the end of an era for Baton Rouge's business and philanthropic community, as he was a respected leader who combined his professional success with a deep commitment to making his hometown a better place through his involvement in various local organizations and initiatives.