Tommy John Hulin, a loving son, nephew, cousin, and dear friend to so many, peacefully passed away and entered into his eternal glory Wednesday, March 15, 2023, surrounded by family and friends. At his passing he was 53.
Tommy was born November 18, 1969 in New Iberia to Curtis Hulin and the late Thelma Babin Hulin, one of two sons born to that union.
Tommy was a graduate of New Iberia Senior High. From a very young age, he knew that he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps in the family grocery business, and that was exactly his path. During his career at both Bi Lo Supermarket and Daspit Supermarket, Tommy met many customers who were like family to him. He took care of everyone with a smile and kind words. Toward the last years at Daspit, Tommy purchased the business from his father and kept the business until his retirement with over 30 successful years. Although he missed his customers, he would come to enjoy the retired life.
Outside of the store, Tommy lived his life to the very fullest. He had a passion for the outdoors with a love for all animals, exploring nature’s beauty and wonders, and casting a line when he had the chance. One of his favorite pastimes was traveling and his family recalled his trip to Jackson Hole Wyoming where he spent time fly fishing. Another favorite destination among many was the Big Apple, New York City.
To know Tommy was to know a man of many talents. He loved to cook and was quite accomplished in the kitchen. He grew his own herbs and could prepare any meal you wanted as his kitchen was stocked with every seasoning and spice available. A signature dish that he prepared was En papillote, fish and other meats cooked in parchment. It was a favorite of his and he was able to have this cooked by Jeremy before his passing. Along with his cooking and gardening skills, Tommy was an excellent designer of floral arrangements and interior decorating having decorated many of his family’s homes for special events. Tommy never met a stranger and took you in as his friend once he met you. Above all else, he will be remembered for his kind smile, heart of gold and generous ways.
We rejoice in knowing that he is not gone, only gone on before us, and we will one day be reunited with him and all of our loved ones. Until that day, rest well Tommy. We love you.
Those left to cherish his memory are his father, Curtis Hulin; Paige Louque and Jeremy Gilbert whom Tommy looked upon as his own children; his precious Godchild, Emma Blair Louque; his nieces, Ella Louque and Talyn Gilbert; Godchild, Emma Grace Scott; his aunts, Joyce Boudreaux, Linda Roberts, Charlene Hulin (his Godmother), Laurie Hulin and Jenny Lopiccolo; his beloved and much spoiled dogs, Murphy, Bruno, Cooper, Trixie and Hopey; and a host of cousins and friends that will miss him dearly.
Tommy is reunited with his mother, Thelma Babin Hulin; his brother whom he missed, Mickey Paul Hulin; his grandparents, Otis Kai Hulin and Helen Duhon Hulin and Leo Babin and Yolande Melancon Babin; and his Godfather, Ervin John Babin.
A Mass of Christian Burial celebrating Tommy’s life will be held at 1:30 pm Saturday, March 18, 2023 at Nativity of Our Lady Catholic Church. Msgr. Robert Romero will be the celebrant. Following the mass, Tommy will be laid to rest alongside his mother and brother.
A gathering of family and friends will be held at Evangeline Funeral Home on Friday from 2:00 pm until 9:00 pm, with the Men’s Rosary Group leading the Rosary at 6:00 pm. Visiting hours will resume on Saturday from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm. In keeping with Tommy’s personality, the family has asked that everyone wear fun and casual clothing to his visitation and funeral service.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Jeremy Gilbert, Thomas Gilbert, Matt Frioux, Brad Roberts, Wes Louque and John Jordan. Honorary pallbearers are Ryan Metz, Buddy Boudreaux, Russell Gonsoulin, Brody Broussard, Billy Hulin and Frederick "Bozo" Metz.
Relatives and friends are encouraged to share the condolences and memories with the family by visiting Tommy’s memorial at www.evangelinenewiberia.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.