John "J.M." Thom, Jr.

John Maurice Thom, Jr. (J.M.), 85, of Lake Charles, LA passed into eternal life on Thursday, November 12, 2020 surrounded by his family.

J.M. was born to John Thom Sr. and wife, Jeanette, on October 21, 1935. He was a 1953 graduate of LaGrange High School. He attended McNeese State University and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education in 1959. J.M. enlisted in the U.S. Army after college and achieved the rank of Sergeant E5. He was a proud member of the Bayonet Chorale until his discharge in 1961. J.M. spent 20 years of service as the band director for Grand Lake High School. He also held the role of music director at Oak Park Methodist Church for 16 years. J.M. retired from his position in maintenance at Idora Incorporated in 2007 after 18 years of service. J.M. had an affinity for music and working with his hands. He was extremely proud of his close-knit family and their treasured traditions.

J.M. will be best remembered as a beloved and devoted husband, father, and “paw paw.” He leaves behind his wife of 59 years, Margie Thom (Leone), daughters Lisa Robertson (Tom) and Debbie Simpson (Greg), son John Thom III (Tammy), grandchildren Dawn Dugas (Jason), Mallory Robertson Slagle (Billy), Megan Robertson Koetter (Dustin), Brennan Thom (Meagan), Casey Simpson, and Brandi Simpson, great-granddaughters Stormie and Safara Robertson, great-grandsons Jaxon Koetter and Billy Reese Slagle, with two more great-grandsons expected to arrive next spring. He is also survived by his nephew Jimmy LeBoeuf (Carol) and niece Jennie Lynn Blevins

He is proceeded in death by his parents, his sister, Claudia Mohr, and great grandchild Romero.

The family would like to express their gratitude to a host of extended family members and close friends for their love showered upon J.M through the trajectory of his earthly life. Thanks are also extended to the staff of St. Joseph’s Hospice for their compassionate care in his final days.

Visitation will be at University Baptist Church on Tuesday, November 17, 2020 from 9:00 AM until 10:30 AM.  A private graveside will be held in Consolata Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home with Monsignor Daniel Torres officiating.