Thomas Joseph Ory, Jr.

November 9, 1951 - September 28, 2016

Lafitte, Louisiana

Thomas Joseph Ory, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Lafitte, Louisiana, on September 28, 2016, at the age of 64, following a year-long battle with melanoma. He is preceded in death by his father, Thomas Joseph Ory, Sr. He is survived by his mother, Elaine Morlas Ory, his sister, Nancy Ory Byrd (Mark), his daughter, Lindsey Ory Morris (Conrad), his son Thomas Joseph Ory, III, his grandson, Grayson Christopher Welch, expected granddaughter Morris, and longtime companion, Lisa Pouwels Naquin and her two children. Tommy was a 1969 graduate of Archbishop Shaw High School. He earned his Bachelor's degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, and his Master's degree from Loyola University in New Orleans. He was employed by the Jefferson Parish School System for 36 years as a teacher, principal, and truancy officer. Tommy was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and the SCV, and attended St. Anthony Catholic Church in Lafitte. Throughout his life, he enjoyed working with the International Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo as a logistics coordinator, as well as managing the children's rodeo and crab races. He spent summers with friends and family at his camp in Grand Isle, Louisiana. His love for classic cars led him to attend Cruisin' the Coast each year with his beloved 1967 Impala in tow. Over a three year period, he studied and traveled the entire span of Route 66 with his love, Lisa. His energy, sense of humor, and helpful nature will be remembered forever by all those who knew and loved him. We would like to extend a special thank you to Ms. Sandra Simmons for her dedication to his care and well-being. Relatives and Friends of the Family are invited to attend the Funeral Mass in the Chapel of MOTHE FUNERAL HOME, 7040 Lapalco Blvd, Marrero, LA on Saturday, October 1, 2016 at 1:30 PM. Interment Our Lady of Prompt Succor Cemetery, Westwego, LA. Parlors will be open Saturday morning from 10 AM until 1:30 PM. To view and sign the memorial guestbook visit www.mothefunerals.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to the AIM at Melanoma Foundation and/or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

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Published by The Sun Herald on Sep. 30, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Ory

71 Entries

Jessica Nobles

July 9, 2019

Rest In Eternal Peace Mr. Ory! You were my all time favorite Principal at Truman Middle School and will be greatly missed by your Truman family as well as your former students! Thanks for all of my awesome middle school memories and making me laugh on my worst days! Fly high SWEET Angel! Until we meet again!

Victoria Carlson

June 4, 2017

I am very sad to hear the news of your passing. You were a good administrator and mentor. I will always remember you and cherish the memories of friendship while I was a student, as a faculty member in the 90s, and when you used to come into China Pearl to order food. May loving memories of you live on in all who love and will miss you. Rest in peace, Mr. Ory.

Henry Mouton

January 10, 2017

Just learning of Tommy's death, i met Tommy back in 1997 when i got involved in the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo, a GREAT Man, a GREAT Friend and so sorry to hear about him leaving us WAY TOO SOON!!

November 22, 2016

Lindsey, Thomas and Lisa and your families. We just found out about Tommy's passing and we are heartbroken. He was one of a kind and our lives are better for knowing your family. Your Dad was loved by a ton of people and count us in that number. His memory will live forever in all of our hearts. We all can hope to see him again

Ronda Olsen Coulon

October 20, 2016

To the children of Tommy,
Your father was a fine man and great educator, as you have read in all the messages. He was a family friend as well
He worked with my step-father in oil field while in school himself, then landing a job at Fisher Middle/ High School where he was one of my teachers and assistant principle, his nickname from the students (females) was dream he was only 10 yrs older than I, I already loved math but he made it so much easier for me to learn. In one word he was awesome. Be proud! he made a huge impact on a lot of lives. I am honored to have had him a part of my family's lives.
I am so sorry for your loss, mine and my sons deepest sympathy goes out to you and his mother.

Cynthia LaRose

October 20, 2016

My story goes back to childhood. Tommy and I lived on the same street in Westwego. We actually met in the 6th. grade. He was back then the guy who you just knew would grow up to be the guy you all knew as a wonderful and giving man. We had a nice friendship back then and I am not surprised how beautiful a life he had. Sorry for his short time with us, but am so happy to read all these wonderful thoughts of him. RIP Tommy and Thank You for the memories.

Matthew Dominick

October 8, 2016

A truly great man who is my disciplinarian at John ehret High School he always listen to reason you knew me well and good points and bad it was actually caring he cared about his students. The story made a difference in my life at one point in time I was really down and low hanging with the wrong crowd doing bad things put mr. Lori being the caring man it is help me out how to find my path in life. I don't think of him and wonder how he is doing in life. Now I know how he is and where he is he started his new Journey in his Ever After Life probably at the Gates of Heaven at the moment trying to convince those who done wrong to change things to do right that's how the story is. Who is an awesome man I can't say that enough thank you mr. For being in my life God bless

October 6, 2016

Sweet old friend, you will be missed! I remember riding in your old Chevy years ago and my dad loved you. Good memories! RIP SIMONE SCANIO

Lonnie Moore

October 3, 2016

I worked with Tommy at Ehret High School in the 1980s. He was on of the greatest school administrators I had the pleasure to work for. My sincerest sympathy to all of his friends and family.

Mary D'Anna

October 3, 2016

I worked with Tommy at Ehret and I will remember him as a true educator who worked for our students. He was always positive and would make us see the humor in some stressful situations. He was a pleasure to be around and will be missed by many.
Mary D'Anna

Tamar Heaney Bigner

October 1, 2016

I'm so sorry to hear of Mr. Ory's passing. I will pray for you, his family and friends. I remember him from Ehret. Always friendly but could be stern, willing to help any student in need.

Rayshard Allen

October 1, 2016

My condolences! A very great man. You will be truly missed.Rayshard Allen,

Pam Blackwell

October 1, 2016

Such SAD news! Tommy was such a nice, helpful colleague, Administrator and Friend. Some of my best years at Ehret was when he was an Administrator there. He listened to Student's and Teacher's "gripes" and opinions-- offered solutions, and respected ideas presented to him. And, yes-- he did it all with a "smile on his face", and made you feel good about yourself-- even if you were feeling "low" or "out of sorts", and just popped into his office for a little chat! A Great person to have known! He WILL be missed by many. My thought and prayers to his loving Family.

October 1, 2016

I remember meeting Tommy at LSU. He was so open and friendly. We played intramural flag football. He was the team quarterback and he was great at it. We hung out. He introduced to people who are still my friends. I'd see him at the Tarpon Rodeo where he volunteered. Sorry to see him leave the planet. He was one of the good guys.
Condolences to the family.

Leo Guidroz Jr.

September 30, 2016

To the family of Mr Ory with deepest sympathy. Mr Ory helped me get my first teaching job at Ehret. He always had a,smile and a hug whenever I saw him. I will always love and keep him in my heart.

Lutritia Lindsey and family

Shannon Thibodeaux Baggett

September 30, 2016

My heart is heavy knowing that I've lost a dear friend and colleague. A long time ago he told me that I was going to be a teacher way before the thought had ever crossed my mind. Today, I thank him for seeing a potential in me that at the time was not so clear. As the thousands of students who have entered his buildings before know, he has inspired us all to follow our passions, to go beyond where we thought was ever imaginable, and to enjoy life-- something I continue to pass on to my students everyday. We've shared some really great times my friend, and I will miss you terribly.

Shannon Thibodeaux Baggett

September 30, 2016

My heart is heavy knowing that I've lost a dear friend and colleague. A long time ago he told me that I was going to be a teacher way before the thought had ever crossed my mind. Today, I thank him for seeing a potential in me that at the time was not so clear. As the thousands of students who have entered his buildings before know, he has inspired us all to follow our passions, to go beyond where we thought was ever imaginable, and to enjoy life-- something I continue to pass on to my students everyday. We've shared really some great times my friend, and I will miss you terribly.

Collene Duplessis-Mnichowski

September 30, 2016

Rest In Peace Mr Ory. I was class of 1990 at John Ehret. You were one in a million. Thanks for always being the person to go to for both the good & bad! Rest easy now. You will always be remembered!

September 30, 2016

Our condolences , the West Jefferson Dept of Radiation. He will be missed

September 30, 2016

Mr. Ory was a true role model. I was a student at Ehret and he helped me on several occasions. I have often thought of him as the years passed, and now lead others with his example. He shaped my life and he will be missed.

Shanna Folse

September 30, 2016

May your light shine as bright in heaven as it was here on earth.

Shanna Folse

September 30, 2016

I will always remember this man. He was always the first one to jump to try and keep students out of trouble. I remember him getting right smack in the middle of two people fighting in school and calming them down. He was always there for whoever needed him. This is such a sad loss. The only solace is that he is at peace now. R.I.P Tommy.

September 30, 2016

Thank you Mr. Ory for having my back in 9th grade! When the photographer wouldn't take my class photo, I went to the office & you escorted me back to the old gym & I then was allowed to take the picture! I will always have that great story. You were loved & will be missed. See you on the other side. ❤
God bless your family that remains. Amen

Debbie Searcy

September 30, 2016

So vey sorry for your loss. I too worked with Tommy at Ehret for many years. He was always willing to listen to kids and peers alike. May God give you peace.

Shanna

September 30, 2016

Was the nicest person at Ehret. Wish there were more men like him in the world.

Ava Trudeaux Roussell Maples

September 30, 2016

Lainey, (this is your BADNESS from Vic A. Pitre, 1972), to you, Nancy, and the entire family/loved ones...my thoughts & PRAYERS are with you. Our Father has called another SAINT to walk on the streets paved with gold and to enter the pearly gates to eternal life. Psalm 30:5 tells us, " Weeping may endureth for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." Also, Psalm 29:11 tells us, "The Lord will give strength onto His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace. Love & Prayers,

Maria Fernandez

September 30, 2016

Rest in Peace Mr. Ory. God has opened his arms and taken you home. No more pain. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with you at Truman Middle School. You truly were a wonderful and caring person. Prayers and condolences to the family and friends.

Heartfelt Sympathy,
Maria Fernandez

Kimberly Harding

September 30, 2016

Mr. Ory was one of the kindest people I have ever met. I had a tough time as a teenager and he was always there to listen. Prayers for his family.

Carol Combs Smith

September 30, 2016

Lindsey, Thomas and family ~
I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. God bless.

September 30, 2016

Rest in Peace

Andy Loar

September 30, 2016

WOW, this guy was a friend to his students and always went out of his way to help them. I was lucky enough to know him when I was in High School and he was also there for my daughters when they were at John Ehret High School. Later I had the privlidge of coaching his daughter in Softball at PARD Playground and got to reconnect with him. Mr. "O", you had a profound impact on thousands of young people during your short time here and you will not be forgotten. Rest in Peace your hard work and tireless efforts were not for nothing. "Always a Patriot"......

Marsha Savoie

September 30, 2016

I am praying for the repose of Tommy's soul and for his family at this difficult time. May he rest in peace.

Sandy Sumich

September 30, 2016

Leni and I met Tommy when he was the Senior Sponsor at Fisher High School. What started as a business relationship turned into an 40 plus year friendship. The last 20 years we would spend time with him in Grand Isle. He was an amazing and kind gentleman. We feel so blessed to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Sandy Sumich

Antoinette Hopkins

September 30, 2016

My condolences to the family. Hold on to God's unchanging hand; he will get you through this hard time in your lives. Be blessed.

Kelly Mathis- Keller

September 30, 2016

As a student at John Ehret, I will always remember his calm, diplomatic way with students. I will miss that great smile. Rip Mr. O. Kelly Mathis Keller

September 29, 2016

Sorry for everyone's loss and he was a great man n me n my family loved him dearly.He helped my son more times than I can count,n I will always be grateful to him for giving me my baby back.Rip n love from the Wilson Family; Gadge,Crystal,n Kim Lebeau Wilson,n CB Wilson!!! Sending prayers and God bless!!!

Joseph Hatty

September 29, 2016

He is a great and caring man was always well loved and I was very proud to have known him. Prayers to the whole family. Sorry for your loss.

Sylvia Jackson Brown

September 29, 2016

A great man who always cared about others. Mr. Ory will truly be missed.

Fisher Middle High 1977

Christina Roberts JE class of 97

September 29, 2016

I am so sad to hear of Mr. Ory passing. He was a great man. He has a heart of gold and knew how to make everyone laugh. He has helped me through some of my most difficult times at John Ehret high school. When I needed someone to talk to he was always there for me. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him. Fly high Mr. Ory you will be missed but never forgotten. To his family y'all will be in my family's prayers. So sorry for your loss. RIP Mr. Ory

sarrah portier

September 29, 2016

mrs.elaine soory for your lose,i word with at vic a pite elem school.i know u will sadly miss your son.

Keisha Hawkins

September 29, 2016

I will miss u Mr Ory u was our principal at Ehret high school u was the best u will be truly miss

Sean Duhon

September 29, 2016

Wow Mr Ory never imagined writing this to you. We just spoke a few weeks ago. Just know I can't thank you enough for everything you did for me in the past your a great person with a huge heart for everyone I would prob still be at Ehret if it weren't for you. Thanks for all the great times an all the fun we had at the games an talking about cars an racing . I'll see you at a cruise on the other side save me a spot.
Thanks again see ya buddy
Sean Duhon c/o 96

Quana White

September 29, 2016

I'm so sorry to hear that he will no longer be hear.My name is Quana White I was one of his kids at Truman Middle.I was one of the trouble kids that he took time with,help and yes he change my life because I felt like no one care about me and he show me that was not true.he will be truly missed.

Jay Bailes

September 29, 2016

To my Dearest Best Friend Tommy Ory .Not a day will go by that I wont miss ya buddy .

Kathleen Rodriguez. Hunton

September 29, 2016

Ms. Elaine and family I am so sadden by the news of Tommy. We were friends since we're kids. May the Lord give you the strength to go through this sadden time. God Speed.......

Glenn Treadaway

September 29, 2016

You will be missed as a good friend and car guy. Glenn and Mary Treadaway

Kathryn Chiasson

September 29, 2016

I am so saddened to find out about Tommy. He was a very dear friend I'll never forget. I will never forget his laugh and smile.

Courtney Carr-Baker

September 29, 2016

Mr. Ory was truly an amazing man. He will always be remembered for his smile and caring attitude towards all. Get your rest Mr. Ory! Love ya!

David Bonner

September 29, 2016

R.I.P. Mr. Ory. My sincerest condolences to the Ory family. I was a student at Fisher High, 1983-1987.

September 29, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.
Rest in peace Mr. Ory.
- Mike M

S Howard class of 1987

September 29, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family during this difficult time. Rest in peace.

Melanie Kass

September 29, 2016

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friend's. He was a wonderful and loving person, He will be deeply miss Hugs

Joann V Ashbey

September 29, 2016

My Deepest Sympathy!!! Sorry for your loss!! Prayers!

September 29, 2016

RIP Tommy condolences to all the family truly was a Great person

Jennifer McGraw Harris

September 29, 2016

Mr. Ory was a true leader and inspiration to so many. He exuded warmth and charm and was extremely passionate about his job. He could be found at any Patriot athletic event,even those random softball games ;) The world is a better place because of him and I am grateful to have learned in his presence. Thank you, Mr. Ory! You will be missed! JEHS c/o 1999

Emery G. Rivero Sr.

September 29, 2016

Goodbuy old friend,we had so many good times I can't recall just one.I'll miss you for sure.

Cynthia Nuzzo

September 29, 2016

Mr Ory will forever be in our hearts and mind. He has done so much for me and my son when he was at Truman. My you fly high my friend. I sent my deepest sympathy to the family. The Nuzzo famioy

September 29, 2016

this was one of the most amazing men I have ever known. He meant the world to me when I attended Ehret. Rest in peace Mr Ory you will be missed! Love Chris and Laci Harbiston

Perry Monnier

September 29, 2016

RIP MR ORY A WONDERFUL PERSON my prayers go out to your family

Millie Fonseca

September 29, 2016

Rip so sorry you lost your life to a horrible disease

Dana Folse Allen

September 29, 2016

Mr. Ory was/is a wonderful person, teacher, coach and mentor. Will treasure the wonderful high school memories! Mr. Ory will be missed by many!

Jason Mitchell

September 29, 2016

I had the pleasure of working with Tommy when I was assigned as a Police Officer on Campus at John Ehret High School. He had a heart for the youth and loved his job. He will be missed.

Debbie Collins

September 29, 2016

Tommy was a great teacher it is so sad to see him go like this. He will be missed by lots if people. My he R.I.P

Phillip Wiebelt

September 29, 2016

Sadden by the news of Mr. Ory's passing. He was a great mentor to many people's lives. It was his faith and encouragement that aided me to go to College. I will be forever grateful to him for that. I on the behalf of myself and my family, We send our condolences to the Mr Ory, along with his close Friends and Family. This life lost a great person, but the next life gain an angel. #ForeverAPatriot J.E. class 01

Norman Trentcosta

September 29, 2016

I was a teacher who worked with Tommy at John Ehret High School for many years. He was an excellent administrator and an even better person. Tommy knew how to treat people with respect and that is why everyone respected him. He really made a difference in many people's lives and I will always honor his memory. Rest in peace, my friend for you have earned it.

September 29, 2016

You will be missed,long time since I've seen him.however memories of him having a great attitude and ethical approach to developing young minds was second to none.thank you Mr.ory for all the influence to be a better student and young individual.Today is a day Of rememberence and gratitude for a friend and respected elder....

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