THOMAS JAMES LEMELLE

Thomas James was born to Telesphore and Lillian Lemelle on Feb 3, 1943, in Lake Charles. He was the sixth of seven children. Thomas grew up in the Car Shop community and departed this life March 12,2024.

In his younger years, Thomas was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, where he received all his sacraments. Thomas was a graduate of Washington High School and proudly served in the United States Marine Corp during the Vietnam era and received an honorable discharged. He then married Margaret Gallien of Lake Charles. He was proud to become the first African American hired by Holsum Bread Company. He was later employed by Miller Beer Company and retired from PPG Industries.

Thomas was an avid bowler. Thomas was a member of St. Henry Catholic Church and a lifetime member of the Knights of St. Peter Claver, St. Henry Council 168.

He leaves behind Margaret Gallien Lemelle, Thomas Lemelle Jr. and wife Nicole of New Orleans; his best friend, granddaughter Kamille James; sister Dorothy Geyen, brother Frederick Lemelle and wife Connie; along with a host of relatives and friends.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents; daughter Kimberly Lemelle, brothers Eugene and Charles Lemelle; sisters Gertrude Lemelle and Semonia Hardy.