Dr. Frank J. DePaula

Frank proudly served his country in the United States Air Force before beginning a distinguished career in dentistry. He was a graduate of Loyola University School of Dentistry in New Orleans and devoted 48 years to the practice of dentistry, serving his patients with skill, integrity, and compassion. He was a respected member of the Louisiana Dental Association and served on the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry, contributing significantly to the advancement of his profession. Deeply rooted in his faith, Frank was an active member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church, where he served in various leadership positions and participated faithfully in volunteer and prayer ministries. His commitment to service extended into the community through his involvement with the Lions Club, where he served as President and was honored as Lion of the Year. Frank was an avid golfer and longtime member of Fairwood Country Club and Greystone Golf and Country Club. He took great pride in “shooting his age” and delighted in sharing the story of his hole-in-one at the age of 82. A skilled carpenter and the family’s beloved “Mr. Fix-It,” there was no problem he could not solve and no repair he could not handle. His weekends, and later his retirement, were devoted to caring for his meticulously maintained lawn, a true labor of love admired by all who passed by. He was preceded in death by his parents, Steve and Phyllis DePaula. Frank is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Carolyn McCarty DePaula; his children, Dawn (Mike) Knuckles, Dina (Bill) Dow, and Stephen (Karen) DePaula; his grandchildren, Daniel DePaula, Matthew DePaula, Keith DePaula, Emily Martinez, Amie (Joshua) Martinez Duke, Andrew (Carlee) Knuckles, and Bradley (Veronica) Knuckles; two great-grandchildren; his brother, Joseph (Josie) A. DePaula; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on January 16, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 11441 Goodwood Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70815. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. Committal services will take place at Greenoaks Memorial Park, 9595 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70815, at 11:15 a.m. Pallbearers honored to serve are Daniel DePaula, Matthew DePaula, Keith DePaula, Andrew Knuckles, Bradley Knuckles, Joshua Duke, Bill Dow, and Rick Davis. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Catholic Community Media (Radio), St. Thomas More Catholic School, or the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN).