Musician and physician Dr. Tommy Comeaux. Photo by Robin MayDr. Tommy Comeaux (1952-1997) was the kind of person who made the community he lived in more than just a collection of individuals. Whether lending his medical expertise or musical support, the pathologist and multi-instrumentalist was known for his wide-ranging talents and his heartfelt generosity.

Tommy was accomplished on guitar, dobro, mandolin and bass, and he was a member of BeauSoleil, The Basin Brothers, The Clickin’ Chickens, Coteau and several other bands. In music as in medicine, he was known for his warm spirit and his willingness to play supporting roles, often letting others have the spotlight.

He received numerous academic and musical awards and honors during his lifetime. Tommy was not only head of pathology at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center, he also received four Grammy nominations while a member of BeauSoleil.

Tommy was killed while bicycling one morning, when an oncoming driver suffered a seizure and crossed the roadway, striking him. His amazing spirit and inspirational legacy live on in the Dr. Tommy Comeaux Memorial Endowed Fund for Traditional Music.