Oscar's Legacy

Oscar Judah Tolmas was born on July 20, 1920 to Charles and Cecile Bressler Tolmas in New Orleans, Louisiana. Oscar’s Father was of Russian descent and his Mother was of Polish descent. They arrived in the United States through Ellis Island in New York in 1915. He had one sister and two brothers. After coming to the United States, education became a driving force in their lives. Oscar graduated from Tulane University in 1941 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He also attended Tulane University School of Law where he obtained his law degree in 1943. He was a member of the Louisiana Bar Association for 70 years.

After graduating from law school he enlisted in the United States Navy. He participated in World War II in the Pacific Ocean. He was honorably discharged in 1946 with the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He then actively practiced law with his brother and sister until 1948 when he became interested in developing real estate. He started various companies to pursue development of real estate in the New Orleans area.

In 1952 he was introduced to horse racing which became one of his passions. He began Tolmas Racing Stables with one of his brothers. They traveled all over the United States to various race tracks. He was so involved with horse racing that he was asked by the Governor of Louisiana in 1992 to become the Chairman of the Louisiana Racing Commission. He accepted and served on the Commission for many years.

He was married in 1963 to Ms. Marjorie Ella Skinner. She was chief of nursing at two different hospitals in the New Orleans area. They were married until her death in September, 2013.

Mr. Tolmas passed away on December 2, 2013. In his last will and testament he formed the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust to help other tax exempt charities with their missions. He left all of his estate to the trust.