Franklin "Frank" Thomas Jr.

"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." -Psalm 73:26
Franklin Davis Thomas, Jr. a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, departed this earthly life on May 1, 2024 at the age of 69, at his home in Tickfaw, Louisiana. His departure leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all that knew him, especially his beloved family, who were always at the center of his heart.
Frank was born on March 22, 1955 to Franklin and Grace Thomas in Independence, Louisiana. It was there where Frank met his lifelong love, Joyce Marie Watts. Frank and Joyce were married in 1974. Together, they had three daughters, Christie Ann, Theresa Michelle, and Frankie Lynn. Frank dedicated his life to his family, cherishing every moment spent together. His unwavering love and support were the foundation upon which his family flourished. Frank's greatest dream in life was to provide a wonderful life for his loving wife and daughters.
This dream was fulfilled when he took over Air Flo Heating & Cooling in 1978, a company first founded by his father, Donald O'Neill, Sr., kickstarting a nearly 50 year career in heating and air conditioning. Alongside his loving brother, Joseph O'Neill, Frank built a business and a life he was extremely proud of. Frank's years and dedication to the company created a thriving business that provided the life he dreamed of for his loving wife and family.
One of Frank's greatest passions was exploring the vast beauty of our country. He loved to travel with his wife, daughters, and friends. His greatest desire in life was to create everlasting memories for those he loved. After showing his three daughters the country, Frank and Joyce created special trips for each of their nine grandchildren and at the time of his death, was looking forward to creating beautiful memories for another generation of family, his great-grandchildren.
Frank will be forever remembered for his unyielding love for his family and his undying devotion to his beautiful wife. His legacy will live on through the memories shared and the values that he instilled in his loved ones. He leaves behind a family that is eternally grateful for the time they had together and the love he poured into their lives.
Frank is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Joyce Marie Thomas; daughters, Christie Thomas, Theresa Patti (Chris), and Frankie Lynn Friloux (Cody); grandchildren, Kirsten Schillace (Jordan), Kelsey McLaughlin, Shelby Wiggins (Gabriel), Gavin Patti, Tristyn Friloux, Destiny McLaughlin, Mackenzie McLaughlin, Jaden Patti, and Lillian Friloux; great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Schillace, Bryn Davis, Clara Davis, and Ashton Schillace; sister, Cynthia Thomas; brothers, Donald O'Neill Jr. (Gina), and Joseph O'Neill (Christie); along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Frank is preceded in death by his father, Franklin D. Thomas, Sr.; parents, Grace and Donald C. O'Neill Sr.; grandparents, Joseph and Theresa Liotta; and dear friends, Clayton Lloyd, Mike Crapanzano, and Ray Vittorio.
Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the visitation from the Chapel of Brandon G. Thompson Funeral Home, 12012 Hwy 190 West Hammond, LA. on Monday, May 6, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Visitation will resume on Tuesday, May 7, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the Funeral Service at 12:00 p.m. Fr. Cayet Mangiaracina will officiate with interment to follow in Colonial Cemetery.