Francis Michael "Mike" Ducote

Francis Michael "Mike" Ducote

April 1, 1938 - January 22, 2026

Passed away peacefully after a brief illness. Mike Ducote was a true American patriot whose life was defined by service to his country, his community, and his family. Growing up in Bunkie, Louisiana, he demonstrated a deep love of aviation and a steadfast commitment to duty, qualities that would guide him throughout his remarkable life. He began his service to country with the Louisiana Civil Air Patrol in Baton Rouge at age 16, serving as both a cadet and senior member. His passion for aviation developed early; he earned his FAA private pilot's certificate in his teens, before he even obtained a driver's license, a testament to his discipline and determination. His love of flight stayed with him throughout his life. Mike went on to serve on active duty with the U.S. Army's 2nd Infantry Division during the Korean Conflict and later continued his military service with the Louisiana Army National Guard's 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne) during the Vietnam War, making over 150 parachute jumps.

His dedication extended to dual service as well with the Louisiana Air National Guard's 926th Aerial Port Squadron as a Loadmaster on the Fairchild C-119 transport aircraft, and the Georgia Air National Guard's 128th Military Airlift Squadron, where he served as a Loadmaster aboard the Douglas C-124 Globemaster II, logging over 1,500 flight hours. His military career reflected uncommon breadth, courage, and devotion to country. He was also the co-founder of the first sport parachute center in Louisiana, The Louisiana Skydivers, and enjoyed sport parachuting in Denham Springs, Baton Rouge, Hammond, and Covington, making over 500 sport jumps. In civilian service, Mike served his community as a Deputy Sheriff with the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office under Sheriff Bryan Clemmons.

He built a long and respected career as a Construction Safety Engineer and Construction Superintendent, known for his leadership, integrity, and unwavering concern for the safety and well-being of others. From 1994 to 1997 he was co-owner, with his son Douglas, of Ducote's Country Dance Hall in Baton Rouge and Gonzales. Beyond his professional and military service, Mike embraced life fully. In addition to aviation and skydiving, he enjoyed SCUBA diving, boating, hunting, and fishing, pursuits that reflected his adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Ann Zumo Ducote; his son Douglas M. Ducote Sr. and wife Marilyn Williams-Ducote of Covington; his daughter, Dara Lynn Ducote of Pine Grove; his grandchildren, Douglas M. Ducote Jr. of Covington, Tyler James Ducote of Dallas, Texas, and Ashlyn Ducote of Pine Grove; and his great- granddaughter, Adalida Lovell of Pine Grove. He is also survived by his sister Jean Ducote Falgus and husband Frank of Baton Rouge; his sister Polly Ducote Duden of Avon Park, Florida; his brother Christopher Ducote of Sicily Island; his sisters Margaret Ducote Cooper and husband Billy of Jackson, Mississippi; along with many cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Magnus and Elma Rachal Ducote; his son, Nolan Craig Ducote; his brother-in-law, Douglas Duden; and his in-laws, John and Helen Zumo. Francis Michael "Mike" Ducote lived a life of honor, service, and quiet strength. His legacy is one of patriotism, integrity, and devotion, a life well lived in faithful service to God, country, and family. If you are able, please donate in his honor to your local VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars). The Ducote family would like to express their gratitude to the wonderful medical staff of doctors, nurses, and volunteers at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, Louisiana, for taking such excellent care of Mike in his final days, thank you all so very much.

Visitation will take place at Seale Funeral Home in Denham Springs on Wednesday January 28, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 PM, visitation will continue on Thursday January 29, 2026 from 9:00-11:00 AM with service beginning at 11:00 AM and burial to follow in Evergreen Memorial Park.