James "Jim" Gerard Bodin

Jim Bodin Sr. passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Jim was born in Franklin, Louisiana on November 23, 1943. His parents were late Ambrose Bodin and Arminer Dumesnil Bodin of Franklin. He was the third of five children.

Jim graduated from Hanson Memorial High School in Franklin in 1962. At Hanson Jim was an all-state basketball and track athlete and still holds track records at Hanson. He was coached by legendary high school and Louisiana HOF football coach Dick McCloskey. His senior year he received multiple track and basketball scholarships and was invited to run in the famous Penn Relays. Jim accepted a track scholarship to attend Northeast in Monroe, Louisiana. He ran track there from 1963 to 1967. At Northeast he was coached by Louisiana HOF and US Olympic Team Track Coach Bob Groseclose. Jim achieved all-conference honors in the 440m hurdles and the 880m. Following college Jim taught high school at Central Catholic, worked for the Morgan City Recreation Department and was the manager of the Atchafalaya health club. Jim managed the historic Avoca Island Duck Club and was the land manager for Avoca Inc. from 1992 to 2017. In 2004 one of his fondest memories was taking President George W. Bush and Louisiana Governor Mike Foster on a weekend rabbit hunt with his cherished beagles.

Jim was known for his quick wit, infectious laughter, and love of life. A man of many passions, he found joy in training beagles, hunting, tending to his bountiful vegetable gardens, and staying active and keeping in great shape. He shared his passion for hunting with his family and dedicated many weekends to making sure everyone knew how to hunt and fish. Whether cracking jokes, working outdoors, or hitting the dance floor with unmatched enthusiasm, he brought energy and warmth to every moment. His spirit, humor, and love will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Jim is survived by his beloved children: Jim Bodin and wife Mary, Karen Cotney and husband Larry, Aaron Bodin, Bo James Bodin and wife Lauren, Raife Bodin, and Kaitlyn Guidry and husband Alex. He was also a proud grandfather to Karoline Johnson and husband Hunter, Whitney Hollis and husband Houston, Jon Bodin, Grant Thornton and wife Bailey, Cameron Bodin, and Emilia Bodin. He also leaves behind two great grandchildren Collier Johnson and Hampton Hollis. Jim leaves behind his siblings, Larry Bodin, Judy Shugart and husband James and Carolyn Luke and husband Gary, who will remember him fondly.

Preceded in death by his parents, Ambrose and Arminer Dumesnil Bodin, sister, Janice Miguez Bodin.

A memorial service honoring Jim's life will be held on March 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. to 12:00pm at Twin City Funeral Home Family and friends are invited to celebrate his legacy and share their memories of a remarkable man who touched the hearts of so many.