Robert Birk Tassin

Bobby was born on May 12, 1957 to Vera Plaisance Tassin Vedros and Robert Tassin, Sr. of Westwego. Bobby worked as a fisherman and carpenter in his early life. He later spent over three decades in Angola prison fighting for his freedom, where he learned the law and became an advocate for many others. His daughter and grandchildren were the joys of his life.

Bobby is survived by his devoted family: his mother, Vera Vedros and stepfather, Leroy J. Vedros; daughter Jessica Dawn Tassin Trosclair (Matthew); his four grandchildren, Heaven and Gavin Imbornone, Malachai Trosclair, and step grandson Sean Bruce; sister Dawn Shaw Tabor (Riley); niece Natasha Shaw Watts (Joel), nephew Matthew M. Shaw (Tana), great nieces Everly Rose Shaw and Aurora Rose Watts, cousins Joel and Herb Tassin Jr., and many other family members. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Tassin, Sr.; grandparents Edward and Judith Plaisance and Bernadette and Herbert Tassin; uncles Herb and Gene Tassin; and brother in law Danny Shaw.

The family would like to give special thanks and love to the following: Bobby’s long-time attorney Denise LeBoeuf, current attorneys Caroline Wallace Tillman and Erica Navalance and the staff at the Promise of Justice Initiative, the Capital Post Conviction Project of Louisiana, as well other members of his prior legal team, Abigail Gaunt, Paul Fleming, Paul Killebrew, Carol Kolinchak, Nick Trenticosta, the late Fred Cassibry, Scharlette Holdman, Linda Ball, Gary Eldredge, John Adcock, and so many others who dedicated years, hours, time, love and support during difficult times. You all meant so much to Bobby and our family.

The Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, and the medical staff at the Louisiana State Penitentiary who treated Bobby during his illnesses, and the staff at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital who took such good care of Bobby during his final days. Ted Munch, Robert Billiot and Dr. Johnny Prejean for kindness and caring; Philip Fricano and friends of the Krewe of King Arthur; and many other friends and family who have provided love and support over the years.

There will be a private cremation. A celebration of Bobby’s life will be held at a later date, when his many friends can join.

Please no flowers or masses, just prayers. Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to Promise of Justice Initiative 1024 Elysian Fields Ave. New Orleans, LA 70117 https://promiseofjustice.org/donate/, or the Mary Bird Cancer Center, 4950 Essen Lane Baton Rouge, LA 70809.