FUNERAL HOME

Brannum Funeral Home - Lake Providence

503 Sparrow Street

Lake Providence, Louisiana

General Trass Obituary

General Trass, 90, former Mayor of Lake Providence and Principal, died Wednesday, March 20, 2013. Funeral Services for Mr. General Trass, Jr. are scheduled for Friday, March 29th, 12:00 noon at the Lake Providence Senior High School Auditorium, 700 Martin Luther King Drive in Lake Providence, LA. Visitation is 1 to 5 PM, Thursday, March 28th at the Brannum Funeral Home Chapel, 503 Sparrow Street, Lake Providence. A Memorial Service will take place from 6 to 8 PM at First Baptist Church, 615 Sparrow Street with the Omega Service of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity beginning at 7 PM. Interment is in Lake Providence Cemetery. You may sign the on line guest book at www.brannumfuneralhomes.com. Services under the direction of Brannum Funeral Home, Inc. 318-559-2297. 503 Sparrow St. Lake Providence, La. 71254 General Trass, Jr. was born January 3, 1923. General, or "Themie", as he was affectionately known, transitioned into eternal rest on March 20, 2013. He was married to Elizabeth Brannum Trass who preceded him in death. General was the twelfth child of thirteen born to General Trass, Sr. and Mary Jordan Trass. A product of East Carroll Parish Schools, he went on to attend Southern University A&M College and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Secondary Education with a major in Social Studies. While at Southern, he became a member of the Beta Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and shared his melodious voice with the Southern University Choir. He later earned his Master of Arts Degree in Administration and Supervision from Tuskegee Institute. He became engaged to Elizabeth Brannum and they were subsequently married in 1949 while he was a senior at Southern University. Their daughter, Karen, was a product of their 60 year marriage. Mr. Trass worked closely with his wife in the management of Brannum Funeral Home and Pride of Carroll Life Insurance Company. In World War II, Soldier Trass served his country honorably in Europe and achieved the rank of Master Sergeant. He was Commissioned First Lt. at Southern University in Baton Rouge and, subsequently, was commissioned a Captain in the Army Reserve. As an educator, General was the first native son to be elected high school principal after a single year's teaching experience. He became principal of the East Carroll Parish Training School in July 1954 and principal of the G. W. Griffin High School in 1955. He has been credited with the establishment of G.W. Griffin High School under his administration. Always concerned with excellence and high academic standards in the classroom, General Trass adhered to a policy of strict discipline and tough love for his students. He retired as principal of the Lake Providence Senior High School in 1991. A devoted and faithful member of First Baptist Church of Lake Providence, General served as the Superintendent of the Sunday School, Church Treasurer, and was entrusted as a Deacon under the pastorate of the late Rev. Freddie Green. One of his favorite activities was the Easter Egg Hunt where he would dye eggs and stuff over fifty bags for the church community. As a community leader, while still a principal, General was elected and served one term as the Mayor of Lake Providence in 1982. Additionally, under his leadership, a new city hall was built. He also served as a member of the board of East Carroll Community Action Agency, Byerly House, Lake Providence Chamber of Commerce, East Carroll Parish Historical and Preservation Board, the Private Industry Council, and the North Delta Area Agency on Aging. Mr. Trass was a Mason, and, as a charter member of the Eta Delta Lambda Graduate Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Monroe, LA, served as its President and in many other roles. Mr. Trass received numerous awards, honors and recognitions over the years. His students remember him as a one of a kind school leader. He was especially proud of a 1987 Griffin High School reunion at His Lordships in Berkeley, California where graduates from across the United States came to honor him. Over the past few years, his daughter, Karen, who moved to Lake Providence to operate the family business, accompanied Mr. Trass. He also spent time with his grandson, Charles Carl Teamer III who is a junior in high school. His distinctive singing voice, playful nature, kind and generous spirit will be missed by all, especially by his daughter and grandchildren for whom his generosity and caring had no limits. He was preceded in death by his wife Elizabeth, her two sisters, Martha Belle Brannum Christon and Albertine Brannum Hayes, PhD. His sisters and brothers: Wylie ,Sr., Minnie, Dorothy, Lafayette, Carmen, Reato, Elijah, Joshua, President, Janice, William, and Emma also preceded him in death. He leaves to mourn his passing his daughter Karen Trass Teamer and her husband Charles Teamer, Jr. and their three children: Cherie, Tulane University Law School; Ashley, a Senior at Boston University and Charles III; nieces, Toniilynn Trass, Candace Crute and nephews, Karl Piper, Kenneth Trass, Reginald Trass, Gregory Trass, Herman Trass, Rickey Trass, Wylie Trass, Leslie Trass, and Arthur Trass; Cousin, Arliss Jones and a very special cousin, Irene Barnes Burnett, and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Published by The Advocate from Mar. 27 to Mar. 28, 2013.
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I have so many wonderful memories!!! Mr. Trass he distilled somethings in me that I will always remember!!! He was a one of a kind person, one of the best!!! No one can compare. I will always remember you Mr. Trass 1981

Joyce Adams

School

August 22, 2023

Because of Mr. Trass, I graduated from Southern University .. I was not able to go straight through college. I had to work a year to return after earning enough for a semester. I did that from 1961 to 1965 .. When I went back and literally refused to leave the Administration office because I was tired of struggling..President of Southern, Dr. Clark was Mr. Trass' Frat brother . He called him. Mr. Trass told him to "LET HER IN" she is a determined young woman. Dr. Clark called the Dean of women and she put me to work in a new program that had just started... I finished Southern in 1968.. I retired from teaching in 2011. Thanks to Mr. Trass.. I have had an honorable career and touched thousands of students... THANK YOU MR. TRASS..

Gwyndolyn Jones

Student

March 25, 2021

Because of this wonderful man I was able to obtain a High School Diploma, I was one of the young girls who had the misfortune to become pregnant at an early age and now one around would allow me to obtain that Diploma but him. He did not judge us, but instead gave us a chance. I went on to graduate college and become an outstanding citizen. Thanks You are my Hero!!!

Diane Gibson-Stokes

Student

March 21, 2020

Mr. Trass visited our annually family gathering on Friday in LP. He was to come back Saturday; however, having two funerals that day, he wasn't able to make it by. The following Wednesday, we heard he passed. I was glad we got to see Mr. Trass. He was my mama's principal, her siblings, and her children; blessed man!
Mr. Trass was a man of honor and respected - which he demanded and GOT! We were able to be a part of his home going celebration and thank you. Your years of service are greatly appreciated and you are missed!

Christine Nunley

Student

March 20, 2019

Joel and I are surprised and saddened to hear of Mr. Trass's passing. On one of our last visits to Lake Providence, we enjoyed very pleasant moments with him, Dr. Hayes, and Charles.

Please know that we care and that we shall always appreciate Mr. Trass's leadership and stature.

Sincerely,
Frances Swayzer Conley, Ed.D.

Frances Swayzer-Conley

April 10, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Lloyd Morehouse

April 7, 2013

You will truly be missed!!! What a legend!

Angela Nichols

April 2, 2013

Thank you for all you did for us. We need principals like you today. RIP and may God Bless and confort your family.
Class of 1961.

April 1, 2013

Mr. Trass will be truly missed. He was indeed a great principal. He taught the students to have respect for themselves, so that respect came naturally for others.
Rest in peace,
The Newton Family of Seattle, WA

April 1, 2013

Karen, I am so sorry for your family's loss. I am rarely stumped for words, but Mr. Trass' passing is one such occasion. This truly marks the end of an era in Lake Providence. We were all so blessed to have had such a loving disciplinarian as our school principal. His refusal to accept anything but the best instilled a like spirit in me and countless others who matriculated under his leadership. Even though he was tough, he was never mean-spirited...and his genuine affection for us was never in doubt. And for this we shall always love and remember "The General." Godspeed...

Dr. Pamela D. Reed :: LPHS Class of 1980

March 30, 2013

What a MAN! To impact so many lives in ones lifetime is just what the Lord would have. I last saw Mr.Trass in 2012 and his impact was as strong as ever. After my mother's services, my oldest daughter was so excited to have met him. She said "Ma, this man boldly walked up to us and said "now whose children are you all"? She said his approach was so bold until she felt like she had to hurriedly say. When he told them that he was "General Trass" she responded ,"Oh, You are Mr.Trass"! I continue to tell my children there will never be another disciplinarian like Mr Trass. I will forever remember watching for his shoe to approach a teacher's classroom door in the hallway because you would definitely not hear him coming. Enjoy the peace as you walk around Heaven Mr. Trass and thank you for showing that you cared for the children of Lake Providence!

Jacqueline Bland

March 29, 2013

May God grant you strength, comfort and peace this day and the days to come. Karen, you and your family are in my prayers.

LaTanya Facen

March 29, 2013

PRAY'N-4 The Family of General Trass, Jr. He will surely be missed, but not forgotten. His legacy will continue through all he touched with his life, his wisdom, his direction, and of course, his discipline!!!

Minister Solomon Armstrong

March 29, 2013

May Almighty God be FOREVER pleased with the life of our Beloved Mr. Trass. May those of us who remain, utilize and pass on the examples for well-balanced living that Mr. Trass taught and exemplified. In the face of adversity he stood strong and thus proved himself to be more than a conqueror! Lake Providence will miss the physical presence of our stern, magnificent leader. However, his humble spirit will abide with us always.
Peace and Blessings to you, Mrs. Teamer for being such a wonderful daughter. May you and your family be Eternally Comforted.

Jerry and Kofi Hawkins

March 29, 2013

I will never forget how happy he made us when he would come to Southern to "check up on us" He would take us out to eat and treated us like we were HIS. Later we realized, WE WERE His.. God Speed Mr. Trass.. I will pray for your family and honor your memory..

Gwyndolyn (Wade)Jones

March 29, 2013

Karen and family: What a blessing to have had a father who was so loved and admired. My prayers are definitely with you at this time. My best memory has nothing to do with school but it's of Mr. Trass the singer of "Oh Holy Night." As a girl and even when I was older and would come home for the holidays I always wanted to be found in the place where he would be singing this song. It sounded like heaven's best on earth and always gave me goosebumps. I bet he's leading that heavenly choir right about now.

Harriet Scott Pullen

March 29, 2013

Karen,
Mr. Trass personally made a difference in my life and the lives of many of my siblings. His caring spirit will live in our hearts forever.

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers today. Remember to look to the hills from whence cometh your help for Psalm 30:5 reminds us that "weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning."

Mary Davis-Potts

March 29, 2013

There are people we know and then there are people we treasure. Mr. Trass was one of the costliest treasure we had. His presence in our lives as a classmate (1942) and principal will always be remembered.

The Cox Family

March 29, 2013

Mr. Trass brought so much to so many lives and left us with a treasure trove of memories. We will never be able to forget him. We are praying for you in this difficult time.

Arthur and Theresa Nervis

March 29, 2013

Our prayer is with you all!

Rev Tommy & Bonnie Martin

March 28, 2013

Gloria Millikin Brown

March 28, 2013

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

March 28, 2013

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Leon & Ester Wynn

March 28, 2013

We will all miss our GREAT principal and leader.

March 28, 2013

Mr. Trass:

I am very proud to say that I had an opportunity to speak with you at length during our last Class Reunion, May 2012. I reminded you of how you "Beat" me on a few occasions and you said, "Did I beat you?" I replied you sure did and we both laughed. You also promised me that you would attempt to visit us in Los Angeles for our yearly "Lake Providence Picnic".
Thank you for your caring, strict disciplinary learning style and love for the students the parents of Lake Providence entrusted into your care. I needed it and it has taken me far in my life.

Troy Johnson-Sanders

March 28, 2013

Mr. Trass:

I am very proud to say that I had an opportunity to speak with you at length during our last Class Reunion, May 2012. I reminded you of how you "Beat" me on a few occasions and you said, "Did I beat you?" I replied you sure did and we both laughed. You also promised me that you would attempt to visit us in Los Angeles for our yearly "Lake Providence Picnic".
Thank you for your caring, strict disciplinary learning style and love for the students the parents of Lake Providence entrusted into your care. I needed it and it has taken me far in my life.

Troy Ann Johnson-Sanders
Class of '1962

March 28, 2013

Karen, Mr.Trass will be missed by many and there are memories that will linger in our hearts forever. Those who knew of him will only hear what we all have to say about a MAN that touched our lives in many ways. He will be missed dearly. You and your family are in our prayers.

Doris Dudley and family

March 28, 2013

Mr. Trass will truly be missed. He had influence on many of our lives.

Loretta Coleman

March 28, 2013

As you have so many times in the pass extended your condolences to our family (and many others) we also extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathies to your family. Mr. Trass was such a great inspiration and encouragement to us. Over the years, he truly had a possitive impact on the lives of many students especially the Class of 1983.
Our prayers go out to your family. May God comfort you as only He can
during this time.

Alisa Whitlock-Puckett

March 28, 2013

Mr. Trass is truly a legacy in Lake Providence. I am grateful for the privilege to say that I too was raised under his supervision. To Karen, may God strengthen you during this time of bereavement and may you have comfort in knowing that your loss is shared by many who loved and adored Mr. Trass. We all have many stories that will live in us forever about Mr. Trass :-)

Juanita Nunley-Laws

March 28, 2013

Thanks Mr. Trass for such wonderful and enlighten leesons in life. My you always be remembered.

David Jackson

March 28, 2013

Karen.
Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. I share your grief and sadness. It was about 8 months ago when Uncle General attended my mother's funeral service. I am relieved that he is joining Aunt Martha, Aunt Liz, and all his good and dear friends in Heaven. Regards, Dwayne D. Nash - Delhi, Louisiana

March 28, 2013

We will miss you Mr. Trass

Dennis Powell

March 27, 2013

The Class of 1977 sends their heart felt condolences to Karen Trass Teamer and the General Trass, Jr. Family. We will always be thankful for Mr. Trass who guided so many of us in the right path. We will forever remember the values that he taught us. We will never have a principal like Mr. Trass in the East Carroll Parish School System. His legacy will live forever.

Rest in peace thou faithful servant
Job well done

Arlrean Hampton

March 27, 2013

My deepest sympathy goes out the Trass family. Mr. Trass was wonderful person. I came home for a funeral and I joke with Mr. Trass about how strict he were and all he did was smile and held his head down. So as I look back at those days at G.W.Griffin High Mr. Trass strict disciple was a learning experience for me to be strong and respect for others. Rest in Peace. God Bless the Trass family

March 27, 2013

On behalf of the E/C Griffin Alumnus: Thank you Mr. Trass for being you! We shall remain eternally grateful for your mentoring in our lives. Because of your presence in our lives, many of us have reached a level of accomplishment that we never thought to be possible for us.
THANKS SO MUCH FOR CARING!!

WE WILL MISS YOU!

Pearlie Hill

March 27, 2013

REST IN PEACE GENERAL JR.

ROBERT SHOEMAKER

March 27, 2013

Karen, our deepest sympathy during this time of bereavement. The Trass legacy will shine in the lives of many. He provided a solid foundation in the area of respect, order and integrity. He could just enter the room, not say a word and everything would come to order. We will never forget his orderly but kind spirit. May God continue to keep and cover you during this time. He is faithful in all things.

Vanessa Gipson Hall

March 27, 2013

Please accept my deepest sympathy in your time of loss. Praying God will comfort you and your family at this sad time. I know he will be greatly missed by his family and the community. May his soul rest in peace.

Terry Gipson Iyasere

March 27, 2013

Karen, I know that God will continue to give you the strength to make it through the next several days, and the times to come.

Margaret Jones Gipson

March 26, 2013

My prayers are with your family,he was a great man,he also is the reason I have a High Schooh Diploma!!

Linda Diane Stokes

March 26, 2013

In your time of sorrow may it ease your pain to know that others are thinking of you. Praying for the family during this time of sorrow.

Dennis and Gloria Campbell

March 26, 2013

My deepest sympathy to the Trass family. I was a student of his way back in 1954-1955 at Carroll Elementary and High school. He was the greatest teacher I ever had and he later became my principal with our class being the last class to graduate from Carroll in 1955. He had a passion for the students that shined brightly and made you want to be the best student you could be. He also helped my children and instilled in them to be the best. He was certainly a special person and I am a better person for having known him. May God bless and keep you in peace as you mourn your loss. Mr. Trass will always hold a special place in my heart.

Martha Zelma White-Jones

March 26, 2013

Praying that your faith makes everything easier. May God Bless and keep You

March 26, 2013

Praying that your faith makes everything easier. May God Bless and keep You

Carol Foley Weems

March 26, 2013

Karen,our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss during this difficult time. God Bless you and your family.

Johnnie Jones-Perkins

March 26, 2013

A legacy that will never be forgotten. Mr. Trass was a great man who lived the life he believed in while directing others to a better future - sometimes with a soft voice, sometimes with a strong sharp voice and if need be with a strong paddle. He believed in educating young people to make a difference. Many of us are different because of his love for us. Karen my prayers are with you and your family.

Gail Campbell Chambers

March 26, 2013

Mr. General Trass, Jr. –Rightfully a legend in his own time. He paved the way for many of us and encouraged us to make a path for ourselves. An honorable, dedicated, respected man of integrity …. While we are sadden by the demise of “Our Principal”, We know that he will live through us. To the family, you consoled many of us in our times of grief. Thus, we are indeed grateful. Please find solace in knowing that we are now praying for you. May you find peace and comfort in your memories. May GOD shower you in grace and continue to bless you. TO GOD BE THE GLORY!!!! LPHS c/o ‘80

Jackie Scott-Allen

March 26, 2013

ICON - Someone famous who is admired by many people and is thought to represent an important idea. The General, our Principal, our disciplinarian, an example, an educator, an icon.
We honored and respected him - he earned it!

"Little girl if you don't stop that running."

Carolyn Graham

March 26, 2013

May God bless the family at time of sorrow.
class of 1965

Georgia Brown/Wilson

March 25, 2013

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Willie Gibson

March 25, 2013

I want to thank you for sharing your father and thank God for letting him be there, hope you find comfort in the love he gave you... R I P Mr.Trass, A true mentor

Adele Hopkins

March 25, 2013

Mr. Trass was a giant of a man. He not only towered over most students in height, but he was a giant in helping to mold us into productive men and women. He has left a rich legacy through the many children who walked the halls of Griffin. He earned the respect of all of us and we were proud to come back home and report to him about our accomplishments. My prayers and thoughts are with Karen and the rest of the family.

Elsie Scott

March 25, 2013

Karen, I will always remember Mr. Trass as one of the kindest, compassionate men I have ever met. He ruled Lake Providence High School at a tumultuous time and kept us all safe. Our loss is heaven's gain. My deepest condolences.

Debra Hopkins

March 25, 2013

Condolences to the family of Mr. Trass!
He was a devoted man and a man of immense presence. He will be missed by all that knew him and even those that knew of him! RIP Sir! you have earned your wings!

kathy powell

March 25, 2013

The Class of 1976 sends our deepest condolences to the family of "Our Principal" General Trass, JR. He will forever hold a special place in our hearts. His guidance, demand for respect and education were just some of the many values he bestowed upon us.

The Principals Principal
We Love You
Rest In Paradise for a job well done.

Sharme Kelley

March 25, 2013

Mr General Trass,
You will truly be missed. You kept each of us in line and you demanded respect. There is not one person who attended Lake Providence Senior High who will ever forget "the love" you showed us. The sidewalk is clear now to enter. Love you much Clara, Doris and Herman Coleman

March 25, 2013

No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.May you be comforted by special memories of times shared together and the contributions of a life well lived.

Kathleen & Barron Franks

March 25, 2013

All I can say is, "He was a great man", who had a big influence on my life.

Anthony Mead

March 25, 2013

Gail White

March 25, 2013

Lee Don Quinn

March 25, 2013

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