Deacon Thomas Jefferson (TJ) Richard, age 80, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, April 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 4, 1944, in Crowley, Louisiana, Thomas lived a life rooted in faith, service, and devotion — to his church, his country, and his family. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, TJ served honorably from August 1963 to July 1967, embodying discipline, strength, and unwavering commitment. He was a devoted husband for 59 years to his beloved wife, Glenda Doucet Richard, with whom he shared a lifetime of love and partnership. Together, they raised two children: Jeff Richard (Alicia) and Michelle Newsom (Bryan). TJ was the proud grandfather of Joshua Richard, Laura LeBlanc (Bryce), Ashley Ardoin (Jack), and Wesley Newsom, and great-grandfather to Evella, Matthew, Leo, and Noah LeBlanc, Hudson and Baby (on the way) Ardoin. His legacy lives on in each of them — in their strength, their faith, and their love for family. In 1983, TJ was ordained as a Deacon in the Catholic Church, a calling he fulfilled with great humility and dedication for more than four decades. His ministry touched countless lives through his quiet guidance, compassionate spirit, and steadfast faith. TJ found joy in life's simple blessings. He loved spending time with his family, sharing stories and laughter. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, especially when he was fishing or tending to his garden, where patience and peace came naturally to him. His quiet strength, warm smile, and gentle wisdom will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph N. Richard and Lillia Suire Richard, and by his beloved grandson, Cpl. Matthew Thomas Richard. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Eunice, Louisiana, followed by a Rosary at 2:30 p.m. and Mass of Christian Burial at 3:00 p.m. with Father Sam Fontana Celebrant. Interment will follow at St. Thomas More Cemetery. The family would like to thank Louisiana Hospice and Palliative Care, his kind and loving nurses, many friends and family for all the love and time spent helping the family navigate those difficult years. A special thanks to Ms Christine for her loving support and guidance the past few months.