Michael Henry Thomassie

Michael Henry Thomassie passed away on August 10, 2026, in Marrero, Louisiana, at the age of 71. A lifelong resident of the Westbank of Jefferson Parish, he attended Immaculate Conception in Marrero through Middle School and Marrero Junior High, graduating from West Jefferson High School.

He worked for the Jefferson Parish Traffic Engineering Department in the sign shop, and later, like many in the area, his livelihood was sustained over the years by the waters of the Mississippi River. He served as a deckhand and port captain with Spanier Marine and Clydesdale Towing, and eventually managed deliveries to the local maritime industry from Boulevard Grocery. He also worked at Action Window Cleaning, for MI Drilling Fluids at their Venice location, and finally providing security at Best Western in Harvey until his health no longer permitted. His dedication to his work was only outdone by his creativity and passion for hands-on projects. Michael was an ardent Do-It-Yourselfer who saw every repair as an invitation. His family leaned into this, bringing anything that needed restoration to “Mikey” or “Uncle Mike.”

His reliability extended far beyond household repairs. Following the loss of his father when Michael was just 28 and as the only brother remaining in the area during his adult life, he naturally stepped into the role of the man of the family. He became the steadfast anchor everyone could count on to take care of things. This deep sense of responsibility was perhaps most visible during hurricane season; Michael took storm threats seriously and could always be found parked in front of the television, faithfully plotting coordinates on paper trackers alongside local meteorologist legend Nash Roberts’ broadcasts to ensure his family was prepared. He remained devoted to his childhood home, spending countless hours there over the years, and in her final months, he helped to care for his mother until her passing. A man of many talents and interests, Michael had a passion for building models and restoring cars. He was a talented artist, not limited to cartoon sketches into which he infused his sense of humor. Michael's artistic abilities extended to playing music, possessing an extraordinary gift for beautifully playing the guitar by ear. Though he was a deeply talented musician who regularly practiced with others and even recorded his own music, he was remarkably humble about his gift, preferring to keep his playing a private joy rather than performing publicly.

Born on December 7th—a date that forever altered American history—it is little surprise that Michael became a devoted military history enthusiast. This profound respect was deeply personal, as his father served in WWII. As a teenager, Michael honored that legacy by actively participating in post-war veteran organizations, such as the VFW. This early dedication blossomed into a lifelong passion, leading to an extensive library and a particular reverence for the stories and sacrifices of the Second World War. He also shared a deep bond with animals and often joined his sister Valerie on animal rescue transports. While not often taken to keeping pets of his own, a notable exception was his beloved late cat, whom he wryly named 'Six-pack'—a tongue-in-cheek nod to washboard abs, given her rather hefty physique. His time with her was fodder for many stories, which played perfectly into his natural gift as a storyteller. Michael was fond of recounting childhood memories around the table. Having been blessed with a generous multitude of aunts, uncles, and cousins in addition to his siblings, ensured that he was never short on material. Above all, Michael used this gift and his quick wit to draw laughter from others, and many hearts were, no doubt, lightened in times of burden.

Michael was preceded in death by his father Earl Thomassie Sr., his mother Marie "Nellie" Hebert Thomassie, and his brothers Earl Thomassie Jr. and David Thomassie. He is survived by his sisters Elaine Thomassie Lesnak, Linda Thomassie, and Valerie Thomassie; his niece Arvella Lesnak, nephew Max Lesnak, great-nephew Ryan Lesnak, great-niece Elaine Lesnak, and a host of beloved cousins. He is also survived by his godchild and bonus nephew, Ryan Gisclair, and his lifelong friends, Grant Gisclair, Randy Hecker, Glenn Percle, and Mark Poirier. Michael is also survived by his godmother, Carol Ory, who cherished her beloved "Mouse" and by his godfather, Alfred D'aquin. Together with his parents, they lovingly presented him for Baptism into the Catholic faith on December 12th, just five days after his birth.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass for Michael and his beloved mother, Nellie, to be celebrated on Thursday, September 17, at 10:00 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 4401 Seventh Street, Marrero, Louisiana. Interment will follow at Restlawn Park Cemetery, 3540 Hwy 90, Avondale, La. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until Mass time.