Damon Thomas-Durden

Damon Keane Durden Thomas was born on June 7, 1965, in Los Angeles, California, to Sesser Durden and Hazel Lee Touissant.

His mother fondly remembers that when Damon was around two years old, he loved watching a particular cartoon. Whenever he heard the word “Tiki,” he would burst into laughter. Something about that word brought him so much joy that his family began calling him Tiki. What started as a childhood nickname became the name everyone would come to know and love.

His Life

Tiki was a man with a big heart, a beautiful smile, and a personality you couldn't forget. He was funny, loving, caring, and full of character. His smile could brighten a room, and he had a special way of making people feel welcomed and loved.

Tiki was a protector, a man of many talents, and truly a jack of all trades. He spent much of his life doing various types of labor and working with his hands. Mostly self-taught, he developed skills in mechanics, electrical work, roofing, painting, and general repairs. He was resourceful and wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty or take on a challenge. Through years of hands-on experience, Tiki learned how to do a little bit of everything. If something needed fixing, he could usually figure out a way to get it done.

Family meant a great deal to Tiki, but his definition of family went far beyond blood. Everyone who came into his life became family. He welcomed people with open arms, making them feel comfortable, accepted, and loved. Whether you had known him for years or had just met him, Tiki had a way of making you feel like you belonged.

Tiki enjoyed good music, especially the sounds of his generation, cheering for his beloved LA Raiders, and playing a good game of dominoes. He enjoyed sharing laughs, stories, and good times with family and friends. And if you knew Tiki, you probably heard him say, “Practice makes perfect!” Those words, along with his unforgettable smile, will always bring back memories of him.

Tiki's journey through life was not without its challenges. He faced struggles and battles along the way, but those struggles were never the whole story of who he was. Beyond them was a man with a good heart, a beautiful smile, and love to give. His life was not perfect, but it was filled with people whose lives he touched and memories that will never be forgotten.

On October 7, 2026, Tiki's earthly journey came to an end.

His Legacy

Tiki leaves behind his seven loving children: Damon Thomas Jr., Damasha Thomas, Arthur Gilbert, Deven Thomas, Danae Thomas, Destiny Thomas, and Elijah Arruda, who will forever carry his love and memories in their hearts.

He shared the journey of parenthood with Sharon, Stacey G., who has also gained her wings, and Stacey A.

His memory will also be cherished by his loving siblings: Sesser Jr., Shunnon, Earnest, Anthony, and Victor, along with his grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends who became family along the way.

Although Tiki is no longer physically with us, the memories of his smile, his laughter, his hugs, his many talents, and his unforgettable personality will live on.

We will remember Tiki not because he was perfect, but because he was ours. His struggles were part of his story, but they were never his whole story.

From a little boy laughing at the sound of the word “Tiki” to a man whose smile and laughter touched so many, his name will forever carry a special meaning.

Tiki's life was his own, his love was real, and his memory will forever remain in our hearts.

Forever Loved. Forever Remembered. Forever Tiki.

Rest in Power, Tiki.