Thomas "Hal" Perez

Thomas Harold “Hal” Perez, 54, of Prairieville, Louisiana, passed away peacefully at home on February 19, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Hal was born on January 3, 1972, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He lived in the community of Park Forest and St. Alphonsus. From an early age, he demonstrated the intelligence, determination, and quiet leadership that would guide him throughout his life. At the age of 17, he earned the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout, an achievement that reflected his strong character and commitment to service.

Hal attended Scotlandville Magnet High School where he excelled academically and played soccer. His dedication to his studies earned him a full honors scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, where he pursued studies in mechanical engineering and computer science.

Driven by a strong sense of duty, Hal served in the Army National Guard, where he was a member of the 1088th Engineer Battalion and served during Operation Iraqi Freedom. His commitment to protecting others continued when he joined the New Orleans Police Department, where he served as a patrol officer and later as a detective, where he was able to use his computer skills. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Hal also served with Task Force Gator alongside the Louisiana National Guard, helping restore order and protect the community during one of the region’s most difficult times.

After his time with the New Orleans Police Department, Hal returned to his hometown of Baton Rouge and continued his career in law enforcement with the State of Louisiana Department of Corrections, Probation and Parole, where he remained dedicated to serving and protecting his community.

Hal was known for his sharp intelligence, quick wit, and sarcasm that was truly second to none. Beneath that humor was a deeply caring and loyal man whose kindness was most often seen by those fortunate enough to be part of his “circle of trust.” He was a natural problem solver—an “options guy”—who believed there was always a way to fix things and often offered multiple solutions when others saw none.

He loved working with his hands and had an incredible ability to take apart, repair, and rebuild almost anything that was broken from a very early age. In recent years, one of his greatest joys was creating elaborate interactive light displays synchronized with music for Christmas and Halloween. He loved seeing the smiles and excitement it brought to the neighborhood and considered it a gift he could share with others.

Though often quiet, Hal possessed a thoughtful wisdom. He was not the loudest voice in the room, but he was always the one willing to listen. He loved deeply, protected fiercely, and was as loyal as they come. His strength, compassion, and steady presence left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him.

Hal was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dorothy and Albert Perez, and Beverly and Thomas Lacy.

He is survived by his loving partner, Beth Stauffer-Perez; his parents, Lynn Perez-Frederick and Mitchell Frederick; his stepdaughter, Dixie Stauffer; and his stepson, Skip Stauffer. He is also survived by his brothers, Andrew Perez (Catherine) and Todd Perez; his stepbrother, Matthew Frederick; and his stepsister, Heather Frederick; as well as his nephews, Tod Perez and Aiden Perez, along with many extended family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues who will deeply miss him.

Hal’s life was defined by service, loyalty, quiet strength, and a generous heart. His memory will live on in the lives he protected, the people he loved, and the countless smiles he brought to others.

At the family's request, they ask those attending to please dress comfortably.

Our family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses at Neuromedical, OLOL Hospice, all family and friends who have supported Hal during his courageous fight.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Glioblastoma Support Network.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com.