Thomas Louis Colletta, Sr., 83, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on December 14, 1941, in Lake Charles to Tom P. Colletta and Josie Mae Colletta, Tom lived a life rooted in faith, family, service, and deep community ties.
Tom graduated from Landry High School in 1959 and went on to earn his degree from McNeese State University in 1963. On February 14, 1960, he married the love of his life, Betty, beginning a 65-year marriage marked by devotion, partnership, and joy.
A respected businessman, Tom served as President of Colletta-Pedersen for more than twenty years, leading with integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to those he worked alongside.
Tom’s faith was central to his life. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and spent decades serving as an usher at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. His steady presence and warm smile were familiar to parishioners week after week.
He embraced life’s joys fully—whether listening to opera, cheering on the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame, McNeese or spending time with his family, whom he loved above all else.
Tom is survived by his wife, Betty; his two children, Thomas Louis Colletta, Jr. (Katharine) of New Orleans and Maria Hanley (Mike) of LaPlace; and his grandchildren Thomas Louis Colletta, III, and Noelle, Michael, and Ashton Hanley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Josie Mae Colletta.
Tom will be remembered for his kindness, his faith, and his unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.
The family will welcome the public for visitation at J. E. Hixson & Sons Funeral Home Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 10 AM until time of service at 12PM. Interment will follow at Graceland Cemetery.
