Tavahtsai J. Leukdee

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Tavahtsai J. Leukdee announces his unexpected passing. Known to many as Lord, and to others simply as T.J., he left this world much too soon on June 13, 2025, at the age of 47. T.J. was a devoted father, son and friend whose laughter and steady presence will be missed dearly by those fortunate enough to have known him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, light, and cherished memories.

Born in Nong Khai, Thailand, as Lord Manisy, the eldest son of Choun Manisy and Noy (Leukdee) Manisy. T.J. was a calm and quiet child who shared an enduring bond with his mother, Noy, throughout his life. In a lasting gesture of deep love and respect, he later chose to carry her maiden name, becoming Tavahtsai Leukdee.

For 15 years, T.J. built a career as a product analyst engineer at Abbott Laboratories, where he was admired for his intelligence, reliability and generosity. He created a workplace where others felt uplifted and valued for their contributions. While working full-time, he pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, an endeavor that stands as a testament to his focus and determination. He met life’s challenges with fearlessness and unshakable resolve.

Outside of work, T.J. had an adventurous spirit, never allowing his chronic autoimmune disease to dim his enthusiasm for life. He embraced new experiences with family and friends, from snowmobiling and skiing in the winter to kayaking and snorkeling in the summer. He loved fishing, playing video games and working on cars. On nice days he could be found on the water or tinkering with his beloved 300ZX, which he jokingly referred to as his “second child.

Though he enjoyed many pursuits, the center of T.J.’s world was his family. Every weekend, he ate dinners with his sister Christine, his mother Noy and his daughter Kianna, with whom he shared a beautiful bond. His support for his daughter was unwavering throughout his life.

T.J.’s presence will be felt for a lifetime. By example, he taught others to enjoy life, laugh loudly and never take a single day for granted.

In addition to his beloved mother, Noy, T.J. is survived by his sister, Christine Leukdee; his daughter, Kianna Leukdee; his nephew, Tommy Nhem; his chosen family, the Austins and the McIntyres; as well as many cherished cousins, friends and extended family members.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate T.J.’s Life Celebration on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 2 until 5 PM at the McKENNA-OUELLETTE FUNERAL HOME, 327 Hildreth Street, Lowell. His funeral service will be held on Monday, June 30th at 7:30 AM in the funeral home, followed by a procession to the Merrimack Crematory, 10 Henry Clay Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. Flowers can be sent to the funeral home and any donations may be made in T.J.’s memory to the National Psoriasis Foundation or to the Ocean Conservancy.