Thomas D. "Tommy" Eavenson Jr.

Thomas "Tommy" D. Eavenson, Jr., 73, of Waynesville, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on December 8, 2025, at Haywood Regional Hospital after a period of declining health.

Born on March 25, 1952, Tommy was a proud graduate of the class of 1971 at Tuscola High School. Following his education, he dedicated many years to his career at Champion Papers, where he made lasting friendships and valuable contributions to the team. After retirement, Tommy continued to work alongside his brothers, installing Appalachian stoves across several counties. With the help of his dear friend Dick Rich, he forged many long-term relationships within the community.

A true craftsman, Tommy possessed a remarkable mechanical mind. He had a unique talent for taking apart and reassembling nearly anything. He believed in the value of materials and never threw away "good junk," finding creative uses for everything he collected. Tommy's resourcefulness and expertise made him a beloved figure among family and friends, and he earned the nickname "MacGyver" for his creative engineering.

In his leisure time, Tommy found joy in fishing local lakes and taking trips out west to hunt. His extraordinary knowledge of history and practical matters made him an engaging conversationalist. He could captivate an audience with his stories, sharing intricate details from various subjects, which he passionately loved.

Tommy was also an avid enthusiast of classic Chevrolet vehicles, sharing a special bond with his brothers through their collection of these timeless cars. He was a devoted grandfather who passed a wealth of knowledge to his grandchildren, instilling in them the values of curiosity and creativity that they will cherish forever.

Tommy is survived by his wife, Vicky Watts Eavenson, of 37 years, and their beloved blended family. Her daughters, Tammy Hightower and Amy Howard; granddaughters Jessica Creson and Peyton Hightower. His daughters, Tammi Sizemore (Jennings) and Candi Curtis (Chris); granddaughters, Kaylee Smathers and Sabrie Curtis; his grandson Justin Sizemore; step-grandson, Evan Curtis, and great-grandson Rydge Smathers.

Also survived by a beloved sister, Peggy Messer (Manson); brother, Scotty Eavenson (Kathy); sister, Patsy Plemmons (Larry), and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents, Tom Eavenson, Sr., and Valerie Eavenson Holloway; brothers, Garry and Barry Eavenson, and grandson, Jeremiah "Cane" Gentry.

May the promises from God's Holy Word give comfort, joy, and praise to those who are mourning or in despair, transforming their suffering into something beautiful. (Isaiah 61:3)-To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.

A private service will take place in the spring of 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Tommy's memory to consider donating to a charity of their choice.

Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Services is deeply honored to be caring for the Eavenson family.