A Mass of Christian Burial for Mr. Thomas James “TJ” Davis will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Oakdale, with Father Vijaya Peddoju officiating. Interment will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Oakdale, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale.

TJ was born in Fawil, Texas, on Nov. 26, 1933, to James and Ethel Jacks Davis. He passed away on Feb. 14, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones.  

TJ grew up in Westlake, La., and attended Westlake High School. He was a proud graduate of McNeese State University where he received a degree in English and cultivated his unique ability to turn a phrase. TJ excelled in athletics, debate, student government, theater and served as president of his fraternity, The Deacons. While at McNeese, he met Frances Mowad and was immediately smitten. On their first date, TJ declared his intention to marry her. Upon graduation, TJ’s prediction came to fruition, and they were married. 

Thereafter, TJ enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. He attained the rank of Captain and was an award-winning Battalion Tank Commander in Northern Europe.

Following his honorable discharge, TJ and Frances relocated to Oakdale where they loved and nurtured six children. TJ was a devoted father who worked diligently to provide for his family. After a career in the insurance industry, he attended Loyola University College of Law and graduated with a Juris Doctorate. TJ started his own law practice in Oakdale, often referring to himself as “just an ole country lawyer toiling in the vineyards of justice”. His extensive legal career included positions as Oakdale City Prosecutor for over thirty years, Allen Parish Chief Public Defender for over twenty years and Coushatta Tribal Judge for four years. 

TJ was enthusiastically involved in civic and community activities. He was a founding member of the Krewe of Muse and served as an officer in the Lions Club and Jaycees. 

TJ was particularly fond of the Cajun culture and enjoyed Mardi Gras, Fred’s in Mamou, and swamp pop music. Lively games of bourrée were a fun and festive tradition.

TJ cherished his family and often said that being a father was his greatest accomplishment. One of his favorite pastimes was imparting his legendary “pearls of wisdom” upon his loved ones. He is survived by his six children, Mary McMinn, Cathy Garner (Monroe), Tommy Davis (Marianne), Joel Davis (Jenny), Michael Davis (Shannon), and John Davis (Sarah). His grandchildren, Caitlin Hearnsberger (Chris), Chris McMinn, Rachel McMinn, Madeleine Davis, Katherine Davis, Jacqueline Davis, Thomas Davis, Frances Anne Davis, Stephen Davis, Daniel Davis, Audrey Davis, Bailey Davis, Emma Davis, Reese Davis, Eva Davis, and John Davis, Jr. TJ was excited to welcome the recent arrival of his first great-grandchild, sweet Sadie Catherine Hearnsberger.

In addition, TJ is survived by Russell Mowad (Judy), Albert Mowad, Mike Mowad, and Barbara Mowad, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins who loved him deeply. 

TJ was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ethel Jacks Davis of Westlake; his wife of 37 years, Frances Mowad Davis; his son-in-law Bryan McMinn, and his grandson Andrew Garner.

TJ was fortunate to spend the last 28 years with a special lady and companion, Nelda McManus. The two lived life to the fullest and TJ experienced many happy memories with his “bonus family,” Scott McManus (Liz), Wade McManus (Dawn), Jane McManus Shoen, and Susan McManus Ells (Mike), along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

The family would like to acknowledge the extraordinary care provided by Christy Laird. Christy’s positive energy, patience, and love will be remembered forever. In addition, special thanks are also extended to Emily Earl, Brooke Darbonne, and Brighton Bridge Hospice.

A time of visitation will be held at Rush Funeral Home, Oakdale, on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, from 9 a.m. until departure to the church. 

Honored to serve as pallbearers, Thomas Davis, Chris McMinn, Stephen Davis, Daniel Davis, John Davis, Jr., and Reese Davis. 

Friends may post online messages of condolences for the Davis family by visiting www.rushfh.com.