Thomas L Hevers

Thomas L. Hevers

Thomas L. Hevers, age 85, of Casa Grande, Arizona, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was born in Troy, New York, to Kathleen and Thomas Hevers. He attended and graduated from Lansingburgh High School, where he met and married the love of his life, Barbara Sunkes. Together they moved to Utica, New York, where they raised four wonderful children and built a life centered on family and community.

An avid sports fan, Tom spent many years working in sporting goods, most recently with Klein’s All Sports. His greatest passion, however, was coaching. He dedicated countless hours to coaching the South Utica Tigers Pop Warner football team, where he inspired generations of young athletes through his leadership, encouragement, and unwavering belief in them. His impact extended far beyond the field and will be remembered by all whose lives he touched.

After the passing of his beloved wife, Barbara, in 2004, Tom moved to Colorado. In 2018, he relocated to Arizona, where he enjoyed the sunshine and warm weather alongside his good friend, Chantel Brotherson.

Tom will be dearly missed by his family and friends. He reminded those around him every day that hope can outlast any diagnosis that comes our way.

He is survived by his children: Sue and Dave Sica of Colorado, Sherri and Jeff Hammond of Texas, Tom Hevers of New York, and Tim Hevers of Colorado. To his grandchildren, he was simply “Poppy,” a title he wore proudly and lived up to fully. His love and encouragement will forever remain in the hearts of Bobby, Bryan, Mike, Matt, Ben, Cory, Stephanie, Tyler, Grant, Parker, and Payton.

He was also lovingly known as “Big Poppy” to his great-grandchildren, who were blessed to share in his life: Rob, Luke, Lyla, Jack, Kaycee, Logan, Natalie, and Addie.

Tom was the oldest of three children. He is survived by his sister, Nancy Schumacher of Saratoga, New York, and was predeceased by his sister, Kathy Schaf, as well as his parents, Kathleen and Thomas Hevers.

He will be forever loved and deeply missed. Tom is now at peace, reunited with his forever love, Barbara.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm on Saturday, February 28, at The Auburn, Auburn Avenue, Utica, New York.