Donald Edward Theriot

Donald Edward Theriot died Thursday, March 20th at home in Pass Christian, Mississippi, as a result of injuries received in a traffic accident in April 2013. An attorney and investor, historian and traveler, he was passionate about leading his family and many friends in energetic and enthusiastic discoveries in geography, history, sport, political debate and personal development. He was a constant teacher, coach and catalyst. He was at the center of a vibrant family life, and is survived by his wife Kathleen Sharp Theriot of Pass Christian; his daughter Elizabeth Sharp Theriot of New York City; his two stepchildren, John Menge Eastman Jr. (married to India McDonald Eastman) of Katy, TX, and Whitney Eastman Miller (married to Martin Owen Miller III) of Pass Christian; five grandchildren; his sister Christine Theriot Woodfin of Atlanta, GA; and many nieces and nephews. Born in New Orleans on June 22, 1944, he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Romeal Theriot. He graduated from Isidore Newman School, attended the University of Virginia, and received a B.A. in history from Tulane University. He earned a law degree from Tulane Law School and a masters in law degree in taxation from New York University School of Law. He was a partner at Bordelon and Theriot law firm in New Orleans, and was always willing to give free legal advice to friends who needed it. In recent years, he was working towards a master’s degree in history from the University of Southern Mississippi, and was planning eventually to pursue a doctoral degree in history. He read critically and voraciously in history, art and other fields. He turned his knowledge always to the benefit of his family, friends and travelling companions as he directed their exploration of civil war and World War II battlefields or European museums. He had informed suggestions for any itinerary, the best hotel in Avignon or the best restaurant in Rome, the pertinent books to read before setting out. He was the embodiment of the “Connector” in author Malcolm Gladwell’s book “The Tipping Point,” a person who put a wide range of interesting creative people together for mutual benefit. He was modest about his charisma but used it to bring people together. Confident that he had contributions to make, he was also eager to learn, constantly challenging himself and others to be better. Services will be at Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery on Tuesday March 25. Visitation will be from 11:00 to 1:00 with the funeral service starting at 1:00. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Coast Episcopal School, 5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach, MS 39560. BRADFORD-O'KEEFE FUNERAL HOME, 15th St., Gulfport, MS. in charge of arrangements.