William "Joe" Mize

Lake Charles - It's said the true purpose of life is to simply live as the fullest expression of oneself: to live fully, love wholeheartedly, and make an impact. William Joseph Mize did just that, leaving behind a legacy of memories and stories that bring laughter, awe, and inspiration.

Joe came to this earth on May 12th, 1950 in Knoxville, Tennessee. He met the love of his life, Maura, in 1975 and they married in 1978. He spent the majority of his adult life in Lake Charles, Louisiana where he was a loving husband and father, and successfully practiced law. Joe's amazing life ended where it all began in his hometown of Knoxville at the age of 70.

Joe impacted the lives of many with his charismatic nature and generosity. Not only did he possess a wicked and sometimes sarcastic sense of humor, he also took great pride in ensuring everyone around him felt cared for and valued. Joe found true joy in coaching and mentoring the youth, while creating a home away from home for so many. His children's friends came to love and adore him for his sincerity, spontaneity and Sunday dinners.

Always the life of the party, anything could happen in the presence of Joe Mize. With a sparkle in his eye, Joe was always ready for the next adventure. He had more than nine lives, and despite numerous health scares, he was determined to live life exactly as he wanted.

Joe was a basketball star at Central High School - Class of '68 - in Knoxville and played at UNC - Asheville College. He coached basketball for years, taking a team to AAU Nationals in 1999.

He was a graduate of Tulane Law School, Cum Laude, Order of the Coif, and member of Tulane Law Review. He then clerked for Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Walter F. Marcus, Jr. Joe went on to practice law from 1983-2019; first with his father-in-law, Eddie Carmouche at the Camp-Carmouche Law Firm and then as co-founder and member of Robichaux, Mize & Wadsack Law Firm. His dedication and commitment to excellence resulted in lifelong clients who also became dear friends.

Joe adored all of his children and took pride in each of their talents. He displayed his son Will's art work with immense pride. He was extremely proud of his daughter Meghan, who found meaning and purpose in her life, relishing how she inspired others through her writing and teaching.

Practicing law with his son Matt was one of the greatest joys of his professional career.

Joe was a loving and supportive husband, always encouraging Maura to pursue her dreams and goals. They traveled the world together, creating memories through their adventures.

Joe spread joy, singing karaoke to his favorite songs Frank Sinatra's "My Way" and "New York, New York", throughout all of the world (literally). Joe truly did live life "his way!" It brings his family immense joy and peace, knowing he's up in heaven serenading us all.

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Maura Carmouche Mize; children, William Joseph Mize Jr. (Vivian, and grandchildren, Whitson, Josie, Harley), Meghan Mize Sylvester (Justin, and grandchildren, Lily, Ruby, Happy), Matthew Martin Mize (Leslie, and grandchildren, William and Conrad), and grandchildren, Jake and Julia Slawek; sister, Kathryn Mize Rhodes (Larry); brother, Ted Harbourt (Anita); mother, Jackie Poe Harbourt (Stan), and a host of much loved nieces, nephews and cousins. Joe is preceded in death by his beloved father and mother, Bob and Gladys Mize; daughter, Myra Mize Slawek, and sister, Susan Harbourt Revelle.

The outpouring of love and support the family has received is a true testament to Joe's life.

Honoring Joe's wishes and knowing he would not be satisfied with a small event, the family will be hosting a Celebration of Life later in Lake Charles, LA. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial donations be made in Joe's memory to EveryKidSports.org. Nothing would please Joe more than providing an opportunity for children to play extracurricular sports. Arrangements by Cremation Options, Inc. (865)6WE-CARE (693-2273) www.cremationoptionsinc.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Knoxville News Sentinel from Jan. 13 to Jan. 17, 2021.