Thomas ‘Tom’ Michael Heddy joined his beloved wife of 49 years, Joyce Elizabeth Heddy In Heaven, with the Lord on January 25, 2023, at the age of 72.
He is survived by three children, Raven Perry and her husband, Chester; Robyn Heddy and her husband Jim Borland; and Caleb Heddy; sister Allison Heddy; niece and nephew Ashley and Austin Unterreiner; uncle-in-law Ken Zesch; and several cousins.
Tom was born on May 11, 1950 in St. Louis, Missouri to William A. Heddy and Dorothy F. Heddy, both of whom preceded him in death.
He graduated from Normandy high school, in St. Louis and later from the Universtity of Missouri with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice.
After marrying Joyce on December 1, 1972, they moved to Independence, Missouri, before settling in West Plains, Missouri. In 1973 he began his career with the State of Missouri, working in the Department of Corrections, Probation and Parole Division, as well as for Social Services. His hard work and dedication paid off, and he retired in 2003 as a Regional Administrator for the Department of Corrections, Probabation and Parole Division.
Tom was stoic in nature, as was required for his job, but behind that he was a kind, warm soul that would go above and beyond to help anyone whom asked him. Many people that Tom worked with, including his probationers and parolees, have taken the time to express their gratitude over the years.
Tom worked continuously on their home and “hobby farm” as he liked to call it. He did much of the work himself and developed a love and talent for woodworking and farming. He made many fine pieces of cabinetry and furniture. He shared his talent with friends and family and many still enjoy his pieces.
He had a keen appreciation of music and was also a talented fisherman, who loved the river. He could often be heard saying, “paddle me back one more time,” because the fish were still biting.
He coached many soccer and basketball teams, as Caleb was growing up. Participating in community was a priority and he never missed the “Shop with a COP” charity at Christmas time; it really made his holiday. He sponsored a child through Child Fund International and kept in contact with him for years; he genuinely loved him, though they would never met.
After retirement he enjoyed helping Joyce around the community garden with various projects. He particularly enjoyed meeting and getting to know the young AmeriCorps members that volunteered their time in the area, so much so that he invited the whole crew over for Thanksgiving one year.
Tom had a great smile, that shone through his eyes. He made friends easily and had many lifelong friends.
He will be greatly missed by his children, sister, and constant companion, Shorty. He already is.
Memorial service will be held Saturday, February 4, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home Chapel, West Plaijns, Missouri.
