David Mitchell LaGasse

David Mitchell LaGasse, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed from this life on Friday, October 16, 2026, from a long battle with Alzheimer's. David was born on October 30, 1946, to Harvey and Helen LaGasse. He grew up with his older brother, Richard, and thirteen years later welcomed his sister, Michelle, to complete his wonderful family. David graduated from Messick High School in 1964, proudly served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves from 1966 to 1972, and graduated from Memphis State University in 1972.

David’s greatest love story began in the fifth grade when he met Patricia Ann Hobson. The childhood sweethearts married on April 1, 1967, beginning nearly six decades of love, devotion, and partnership. Together, they raised two sons, Mark and Mitch, and built a life centered on faith, family and fun. David shared a special bond with Mark’s wife, Karen, whom he loved as a daughter. He was affectionately known as “Papaw” to his three beloved grandchildren, Abigail, Presley, and Tyler.

In February 1979, David and Patricia founded LaGasse Construction, where he remained actively involved for approximately 40 years. Having begun his career as an ironworker, David believed in hard work, honesty, and integrity. He treated the company’s employees as extended family, establishing values that remain part of its foundation today.

Known to his friends as “Captain,” David loved life on the water, especially aboard the Seaduced, his Bluewater boat on Pickwick Lake. He enjoyed entertaining family and friends, hunting, fishing, riding four-wheelers, and spending time at the family farm in Tillatoba, MS or on the Gulf Coast. His wonderful sense of humor and genuine kindness endeared him to those who knew him.

A man of deep but quiet Christian faith, David lived his belief in Jesus Christ through his actions. He generously supported children, the elderly, veterans, and those in need, often anonymously and without seeking recognition. His compassion and generosity touched countless lives, many in ways his family may never fully know.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Helen LaGasse; his older brother, Richard LaGasse Sr.; and his sister-in-law, Glenda LaGasse. He is survived by his beloved wife, Tricia; his sons, Mark (Karen) LaGasse and Mitchell LaGasse; his cherished grandchildren, Abigail, Presley, and Tyler; and his sister, Michelle (David) Shipman.

The family will receive friends on Monday, October 26, 2026 at 10:00am in Ivy Hall at Collierville Funeral Home with a Celebration of Life service beginning at 11:00am. Burial will follow with Military Honors at Forest Hill – South Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association www.curealz.org.

Above all, David will be remembered for his unwavering love and devotion to “his Trish” and his family. His life reflected the very motto of the Marine Corps he loved so dearly: Semper Fidelis — Always Faithful. Faithful to his country, his principles, his family, and his faith.

Semper Fi, Captain Dave. Fair winds and following seas.