John McPherson, Longtime Louisiana PCO, Passes Away

DENHAM SPRINGS, La. — John McPherson, a longtime PCO who also worked with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 17. He was 77

McPherson owned and operated Southern Exterminating for 30 years in Metairie and worked for the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry for 13 years in Baton Rouge. He served on the foundation board of the NOBTS and was active and served in local, state and national pest control associations. He was a deacon and teacher for the 2-year-olds at Riverside Baptist Church in Watson. McPherson also was a past president of Pi Chi Omega.

Lois Caffey, secretary-treasurer of Adams Pest Control, Alexandria, La., was a longtime friend and colleague of McPherson. Caffey told PCT that McPherson was instrumental in the development of the Lois Caffey Termite Training Center, located on the Louisiana State University campus. Having worked as both a PCO and with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture, McPherson brought with him the perspective of both an operator and regulator. “John knew more about the ins and outs of the pest control industry and the daily procedures of pest control than anyone I know,” Caffey said.

McPherson helped develop the curriculum and procedures for the Training Center, including the use of professionals that work in the field as instructors; wood identification; and curriculum that places heavy emphasis on performing pest control within the rules and regulations of the state of Louisiana.

McPherson is survived by his wife of 53 years, Marie Mitchell McPherson of Denham Springs. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Riverside Baptist Church Building Fund, 36890 La. 16, Denham Springs, LA 70706.